At Shrub Oak International School, life skills education is an essential part of the curriculum, designed to empower students with the practical abilities they need for independent living and long-term success. For autistic individuals, developing these competencies often requires specialized support, patience, and personalized instruction. Shrub Oak International School’s comprehensive approach ensures that each student gains the confidence and capability to navigate everyday tasks, both at school and in the broader community.
Shrub Oak International School integrates life skills education across academic, therapeutic, and recreational settings. With individualized goals tailored to each student’s abilities and aspirations, the curriculum encompasses a wide range of essential competencies. From cooking and budgeting to time management and personal care, students receive hands-on experience under the guidance of trained professionals. The goal is not only to teach these skills but also to create meaningful learning experiences that build confidence and resilience.
The Life Skills House, a dedicated house located on Shrub Oak International School’s campus, is an environment designed to simulate a real-world home setting serving as a cornerstone of this program. Equipped with a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and communal living spaces, the Life Skills House offers students the opportunity to practice daily routines in a supportive, structured setting. Through consistent practice, students build the confidence and independence necessary for adulthood. Staff observe and assess progress, adjusting lessons as needed to ensure students are continually challenged and supported.
In the Life Skills House, students engage in practical tasks that reflect the responsibilities of independent living. Cooking lessons introduce students to meal planning, grocery shopping, nutrition skills, and safe food preparation. Under staff supervision, students practice reading recipes, measuring ingredients, and using kitchen appliances. These culinary experiences not only enhance nutrition knowledge but also build problem-solving skills and self-reliance. Shrub Oak International School students are also encouraged to try new foods, helping them expand their palates and overcome sensory challenges that are common among autistic individuals.
Similarly, students take part in household maintenance, including laundry, cleaning, and organizing. These tasks, though often routine, provide invaluable opportunities to develop motor skills, follow multi-step instructions, and understand the importance of maintaining a clean and organized space. Learning how to manage a household fosters a sense of responsibility and pride in one’s environment. Additionally, mastering these skills enables students to contribute meaningfully to their families and future living arrangements.
Beyond the Life Skills House, Shrub Oak International School emphasizes community-based instruction to reinforce learning in real-world settings. Frequent trips to local grocery stores, cafes, and shops offer Shrub Oak International School students the chance to apply their budgeting and social skills in authentic environments. Through experiences like ordering meals, making purchases, and interacting with community members, students gain practical knowledge while building confidence and community ties. Each outing is carefully planned to align with individual goals, providing students with opportunities to practice newly acquired skills in dynamic environments.
Shrub Oak International School also cultivates relationships with local businesses to provide internships and volunteer opportunities. These experiences allow students to explore vocational interests, develop workplace skills, and establish connections within the community. Whether working at a local pet store, participating in culinary training, or engaging in retail tasks, students benefit from meaningful, hands-on learning that prepares them for future employment or volunteer work. These partnerships not only support skill development but also promote inclusivity and understanding within the wider community.
Recognizing that each student has unique strengths and challenges, Shrub Oak International School’s transdisciplinary team of educators and clinicians collaborates to create personalized learning plans. Regular assessments ensure that students are making progress toward their goals, with adjustments made as needed to provide continued support. Data-driven instruction enables staff to monitor progress effectively, celebrating milestones and identifying areas for further development.
Incorporating therapeutic practices within life skills instruction is another key component of Shrub Oak International School’s approach. Occupational therapists assist students in developing fine motor skills and sensory regulation, while speech and language therapists provide guidance on effective communication in social and practical scenarios. This comprehensive support system ensures that students receive the targeted assistance they need to thrive. Additionally, students receive coaching on self-advocacy, enabling them to articulate their needs and preferences in both academic and social settings.
An important goal of life skills education at Shrub Oak International School is to foster confidence. As students master tasks such as preparing meals, managing finances, and navigating public transportation, they gain a sense of accomplishment and confidence in their abilities. Staff members work closely with students to set realistic goals and celebrate progress, ensuring that each achievement is recognized and reinforced.
For many students, this progress also strengthens their self-advocacy skills. Knowing how to express their needs, make informed decisions, and problem-solve in everyday situations empowers them to participate more fully in their communities and lead fulfilling lives. Family involvement is integral to this process. Collaborative planning between families and staff ensures a cohesive support system that extends beyond the school environment.
Throughout the school year, Shrub Oak International School celebrates students’ achievements in life skills education. Events such as baking celebrations, student-led community service projects, and presentations and showcases provide opportunities to recognize progress and foster pride. These events also serve to inspire other students, demonstrating the possibilities that come with persistence and dedication.
The emphasis on experiential learning, combined with individualized support, prepares students to navigate the complexities of adult life with confidence. Many graduates of Shrub Oak International School continue to apply the skills they’ve acquired as they pursue further education and employment. Staff members remain committed to supporting students through these transitions, offering guidance and encouragement as they achieve their goals.
At Shrub Oak International School, life skills education is more than a curriculum component—it is a pathway to self-confidence. By providing a supportive, immersive learning environment through the Life Skills House and community-based experiences, the school equips students with the abilities they need to navigate the complexities of adult life. Through this dedication, Shrub Oak International School fosters lasting success for its students, preparing them to lead meaningful lives.
