Life Skills Training

Term from Disability Services industry explained for recruiters

Life Skills Training is a type of support service that helps people with disabilities learn essential day-to-day abilities needed for independent living. This includes teaching practical tasks like cooking, budgeting, personal hygiene, using public transportation, and maintaining a home. Service providers often call it "independent living skills training" or "daily living skills instruction." It's a key component in disability support services, helping individuals become more self-sufficient and integrated into their communities.

Examples in Resumes

Developed and implemented Life Skills Training programs for 20+ clients with developmental disabilities

Led weekly Independent Living Skills sessions focusing on money management and personal care

Created individualized Life Skills curriculum for adults transitioning to independent living

Conducted group Daily Living Skills Training sessions focusing on cooking and home maintenance

Typical job title: "Life Skills Trainers"

Also try searching for:

Life Skills Instructor Independent Living Skills Trainer Daily Living Skills Coach Life Skills Support Worker Independent Living Specialist ADL Skills Trainer Independent Living Coach

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop and oversee a comprehensive life skills training program for multiple clients with different needs?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in program development, staff supervision, and ability to customize training approaches for different disability types and severity levels. Should mention assessment tools, progress tracking, and staff training methods.

Q: How do you ensure your life skills training program stays current with best practices and regulatory requirements?

Expected Answer: Should discuss professional development, keeping up with industry standards, knowledge of relevant regulations (like ADA compliance), and experience updating programs based on new research or guidelines.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle a situation where a client is not progressing in their life skills development?

Expected Answer: Should discuss assessment methods, adjusting teaching strategies, collaborating with other professionals, and involving family members or caregivers in the process.

Q: Describe your experience in creating individualized life skills training plans.

Expected Answer: Look for answers showing ability to assess client needs, set realistic goals, break down complex tasks into manageable steps, and adapt teaching methods to individual learning styles.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What experience do you have working with people with disabilities?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic understanding of different types of disabilities, comfort level working with disabled individuals, and any relevant volunteer or entry-level work experience.

Q: How would you teach a simple daily living task to someone with a learning disability?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of task analysis, breaking down activities into simple steps, and using clear communication methods appropriate for the learner.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of disabilities
  • Teaching simple daily living tasks
  • Following established training plans
  • Basic documentation skills

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Creating individual training plans
  • Behavior management techniques
  • Progress assessment and reporting
  • Family/caregiver coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Program development and oversight
  • Staff training and supervision
  • Quality assurance implementation
  • Strategic planning and evaluation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No direct experience working with people with disabilities
  • Lack of patience or flexibility in teaching approaches
  • Poor documentation habits
  • Inability to maintain professional boundaries
  • No knowledge of safety protocols or emergency procedures