Life Skills for Teens – Building Independence with OT Support
- claire2876
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
As teenagers transition toward adulthood, building practical life skills becomes essential. These skills—like managing money, organising time, preparing meals, and navigating social settings—aren’t always taught in school. When young people struggle with executive functioning, sensory processing, or developmental delays, occupational therapy can bridge the gap.
At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, our OTs help teens build the confidence, structure, and tools they need for greater independence in daily life.
👟 What Are Life Skills?
Life skills are the everyday tasks and routines needed to live independently. They include:
Time management and organisation
Meal planning and basic cooking
Personal hygiene and routines
Budgeting and managing money
Using public transport
Problem-solving and decision-making
Job readiness and study strategies
Social communication and self-advocacy
Teens with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or developmental delays often benefit from targeted support to develop these skills.
🔍 Signs Your Teen May Need OT Support
Avoids or struggles with everyday tasks
Difficulty managing time, homework, or commitments
Trouble staying organised or remembering steps
Lack of confidence in social or community situations
Needs frequent reminders for hygiene or self-care
Anxiety about becoming more independent
Unprepared for transitions like high school, university, or work
If you’re supporting a teen who’s falling behind in independence, a structured OT program can help them catch up and thrive.
🏠 Life Skill-Building Ideas to Try at Home
Use visual schedules or planners to map out routines
Cook together: Let teens take charge of a simple recipe
Practice shopping: Give a small budget to plan and purchase an item
Create a weekly chore roster with checklists
Problem-solve together: Discuss “what if” scenarios
Role-play social situations or job interview questions
Use apps for time tracking, task planning, and reminders
Consistency, modelling, and small wins go a long way in preparing teens for the next step in life.
📥 When to Refer to an OT for Life Skills Support
Teen is not meeting expected levels of independence
They avoid or become overwhelmed by daily tasks
They’re preparing for NDIS plan reassessments and need clear progress tracking
You’re unsure how to support them with transitions
School staff or carers have flagged concerns
Our occupational therapists provide targeted, strengths-based life skills training tailored to your teen’s goals and developmental stage.
💬 Help Your Teen Build Skills for the Future
We’ll work with you and your teen to set practical goals and build the habits and confidence they need for a more independent future.
📍 Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy or Shellharbour Occupational Therapy📅 Book via HotDoc:
🔗 Book Now – Shoalhaven: https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/nowra-NSW-2541/shoalhavenot-au/doctors
🔗 Book Now – Shellharbour: https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/barrack-heights-NSW-2528/shellharbour-occupational-therapy/doctors
