Our ILS staff work closely with clients to help them acquire the skills necessary to live more independently. (We support clients in taking vital
steps toward autonomy.)
Life skills guidance and practice are provided on an individualized basis or in a workshop setting and cover the following areas:
- Organizing and Planning – Essential skills that transform goals into actions. (identifying tasks, prioritizing, and executing steps
efficiently to achieve specific) - Household Management – Effective day-to-day operations of the home and domestic tasks (meal planning, cooking, nutrition,
grocery shopping, house cleaning, home safety, personal hygiene) - Healthy Living & Proactive Healthcare – Assess self-care and preventive needs. (Combine healthy habits like nutrition, exercise, and preventive tools with healthcare plans to support well-being)
- Personal Safety and Adaptive Techniques – Tailor to individual needs. (Personal safety planning empowers clients to protect themselves at home, in the community, and during activities. It includes adaptive methods, helping to navigate challenges and boost independence for a safer lifestyle)
- Money Management and Bill Paying – To build a self-determined sustainable financial foundation. (budgeting, setting up automatic bill paying)
- Social Skills – Connection with others improves communication effectiveness. (active listening, developing empathy and verbal and non-verbal skills, such as body language, eye contact, and tone of voice as well as conflict resolution techniques for managing disagreements constructively)
- Technology – Learn how to use electronic devices and establish settings on a personal cell phone, computer or tablet. (Technology skills help clients build proficiency for everyday life, education and employment)
- Social Media Training – Understanding how to use online platforms and respond to inquiries. (create a new email account or post, etc.)
- Pursuing Schooling, Vocational Training, or Higher Education – Information and Referral (College of the Redwoods – CR Adult Education, CR Workforce and Community Education, CR)
(CalPoly Humboldt – Academic Advising Center, Career Center, Campus Disability Resource Center) - Obtaining Identification – Understanding the requirements for different forms of ID, gathering necessary documents, and completing application procedures allows access to essential services and to engage fully in community life. (birth certificate, driver’s license, Social Security card, etc.)
- Using Public Transportation – Learn to use public transit to increase independence and mobility. Mastering these skills enables confident community travel and reduces reliance on others for transportation. (Helping to understand schedules, plan routes, and travel safely)