Building Independence and Confidence: Life Skills Groups at Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy

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At Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy, we believe in empowering individuals of all ages to live their most independent and fulfilling lives. One of the ways we support this mission is through our Life Skills Group Programs—a practical and engaging approach to developing essential everyday skills in a supportive group environment.

Whether it's learning how to cook a simple meal, manage a budget, travel independently, or build healthy routines, life skills are the foundation of confidence and self-sufficiency. Our Life Skills Groups are designed to help NDIS participants gain the practical tools they need to thrive at home, school, work, and in the community.

🧠 What Are Life Skills Groups?

Our Life Skills Groups are small, therapist-led sessions focused on developing key functional skills through fun, real-world activities. Each group is tailored to meet the needs of participants based on their goals, abilities, and developmental stage. Groups may be age-specific, such as teens preparing for adulthood or young adults aiming to build more independence.

Sessions typically cover areas such as:

• Cooking and kitchen safety

• Personal hygiene and grooming

• Money handling and budgeting

• Shopping and meal planning

• Public transport and travel training

• Social communication and teamwork

• Time management and routines

• Job-readiness and interview skills

  
  

🌟 Benefits of Joining a Life Skills Group

1. Improved Independence: Participants build confidence in completing daily tasks on their own, fostering greater autonomy in their day-to-day lives.

2. Social Connection: Group settings encourage peer interaction, teamwork, and the development of social communication skills in a natural and supportive environment.

3. Real-World Learning: Activities are hands-on and practical, helping participants apply skills in real-life situations—with guidance and encouragement from experienced occupational therapists.

4. Goal-Focused Outcomes: Programs are aligned with each individual’s NDIS goals, and progress is regularly reviewed to ensure participants are meeting milestones that matter to them.

5. Boosted Self-Esteem: Mastering new tasks and overcoming challenges can greatly improve confidence and self-worth.

6. Transition Support: Life Skills Groups are particularly valuable for teens and young adults transitioning into higher levels of independence—whether that’s moving out of home, entering the workforce, or pursuing study.

   
   

🏡 Why Choose Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy?

We have a strong focus on community connection, Shoalhaven Occupational Therapy offers a warm, person-centred approach. Our team of experienced OTs and Allied Health Assistants work together to create engaging, goal-oriented sessions that support each client’s growth and wellbeing.

We understand that every individual is unique—and our Life Skills Groups reflect that. Participants are matched into groups based on age, interests, and needs, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued.

💬 Want to Know More?

If you or someone you support could benefit from developing everyday skills in a fun, social and supportive setting, we’d love to hear from you.

📞 Call our friendly team at (02)44216013 or📧 Send us a message to find out about upcoming Life Skills Group sessions and how to get involved. Link: Contact

Let’s build independence, together.