Life Skills Training for Children with Autism

Building Independence Through Everyday Routines

For many children with autism, learning everyday routines like dressing, using the bathroom, or feeding themselves can feel challenging. At Thrive Autism, our Life Skills Training Program helps children develop the practical skills they need for greater independence at home, school, and in the community.

We use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies to break skills down into small, manageable steps — making it easier for children to learn, practice, and master them over time.

What Are Life Skills?

Life skills, sometimes called daily living skills, are the essential routines that help children care for themselves and build confidence. Our program focuses on areas such as:

• Toileting – toilet training, handwashing, hygiene habits
• Dressing – putting on clothes, zippers, buttons, shoes
• Self-feeding – using utensils, drinking from a cup, eating independently
• Personal hygiene – brushing teeth, bathing, grooming
• Household participation – cleaning up toys, setting the table, helping with chores

Each skill is taught step by step, using positive reinforcement and practice until your child feels confident doing it on their own.

Why Life Skills Training Matters

Learning life skills at a young age creates lasting benefits for both children and their families. With support, children can:

• Build confidence and independence
• Reduce reliance on parents for daily routines
• Feel more included in school, daycare, and community settings
• Develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments
• Prepare for future milestones, like starting school or making friends

How We Teach Life Skills

Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and therapists design individualized programs for each child. Depending on your family’s goals, sessions may focus on one specific skill (like toileting) or multiple areas of daily living.

We use ABA techniques such as:

• Task analysis – breaking skills into small, teachable steps
• Modeling and prompting – showing the child what to do and guiding them through practice
• Positive reinforcement – celebrating each success, no matter how small
• Generalization – practicing skills across different settings so they “stick”

Where Services Take Place

Life skills training can be delivered in:

• Your home – practicing in the child’s natural environment
• Our clinics – structured sessions with professional guidance
• Community settings – grocery stores, playgrounds, or other real-world places

This flexibility ensures your child learns skills in the places they use them most.

Start Building Independence Today

Every child deserves the chance to care for themselves and feel proud of what they can do. Our Life Skills Training Program gives children with autism the tools to build confidence and independence in daily routines.

Fill out the form below to connect with Thrive Autism and learn more about starting Life Skills ABA Therapy in Gilbert, Tempe, or North Gilbert.