Bridging the Gap: The Essential Role of Life Skills Training in the Lives of Children with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Training of life skills to the children with intellectual disabilities improves and helps in their independence, self-confidence and social inclusion. But more often than not these children struggle with doing everyday things, communicating and achieving relationships, thus restricting their full place in society. By teaching them life skills, children are trained with necessary skills such as self care, problem solving, effective communication and social interaction, all of which is vital to improving the children’s quality of life as well as to further their integration into social, educational and work environments. Such training also helps the children fend not only everyday but also boosts their self esteem since it creates an accomplishment and self independence feeling for the children. In addition, the delivery of life skills programs enhances the development of inclusive communities through reduction of stigma, encouraging understanding and making children with intellectual disabilities feel empowered to play an active role in society. In general, this paper emphasizes the necessity of life skills education for children with Intellectual Disabilities in terms of enabling them to live purposeful, independent lives whilst contributing to a more inclusive and loving society for all.