ErinoakKids - Life Skills

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Life Skills

Learning life skills helps youth feel more confidence and independent. This service is designed for youth who want support with:

Getting around the community safely and independently
Planning and preparing simple meals
Learning to manage money
Getting ready for volunteering or a future job

Support may be offered one‑to‑one or in a small group, depending on what works best. Sessions can take place in person, online, or out in the community, depending on the youth’s goals.

Referral Process and Criteria

A referral from an ErinoakKids clinician is needed to access this service. This can include an Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist, Recreation Therapist, Transition Consultant or another member of the team.

Youth are eligible for this service if they are between 12 and 19 years old, or up to 21 if they’re still enrolled in a publicly funded high school.

Independent Living Program

The ErinoakKids Independent Living Program (ILP) is an opportunity for clients ages 16 -19 years old to learn life skills while living in an accessible apartment. The program occurs annually during the summer.

Learn more about ILP

Life Skills Resources

Life skills support everyday activities like making simple after‑school snacks, finding their way to places in the community (such as the library, grocery store, or school), and understanding how to save and spend money. Life skills also help youth build early foundations for volunteering or getting a job.

Every young person learns at their own pace and has their own goals. Because of that, the skills youth work on may look different for everyone. The guide below gives a general idea of the types of skills that may be introduced or developed at different ages.

A Helpful Guide to Growing Independence