There are a number of important areas in which young people can develop life skills, including daily life/self care, health, communication, social skills/leisure and recreation and school/work/volunteering.

Life skills can be introduced slowly and built upon over time.

The development and enhancement of these life skills will contribute towards a young persons independence, confidence, happiness and general wellbeing.

Assistance with daily life/self care includes personal hygiene – showering, brushing teeth, use of deodorant and dressing; and personal environments – assistance to manage home environment, such as making beds and food preparation; and shopping required for everyday life.

Other areas covered are:

Health: education about healthy food options; cooking; and daily exercise, from gentle to vigorous.

Communication: developing communication skills on a one to one level and in groups; and engaging in group activities like music and drama where communication is a key element.

Social skills: community participation – attending community facilities, such as a library or swimming pool; and participating in fitness, sport, recreational and leisure groups.

School/work/volunteering: assistance with school, such as homework assistance and after-school activities; and assistance with work and volunteering, such as attendance at a workplace, volunteer organisation.

Interchange Australia provides a wide range of services that can assist young people to develop and enhance life skills, including personal care, domestic assistance, cooking and dinner groups, sports and leisure activities such as tenpin bowling and golf, drama groups and music groups, weekend activities and outings and school holiday programs.

We also provide an opportunity for young people to volunteer with local organisations, engage in work experience with local businesses and engage in training courses and ongoing education.