Core Skills Analysis
Life Skills and Executive Function
During a session with a support worker, Olivia practised packing clothes independently for an access visit with her dad. The activity gave Olivia an opportunity to organise a practical task and take responsibility for preparing belongings for a specific event. Olivia worked on planning and carrying out the steps involved in packing, building everyday independence through direct practice.
Communication and Social-Emotional Learning
Olivia took part in a support-worker session focused on preparing for time with her dad. Through the activity, Olivia practised engaging with support while working toward greater independence. Packing for a family visit also connected a concrete preparation task with an upcoming social occasion.
Tips
Tips — Invite Olivia to create a reusable packing checklist, then let Olivia use it to guide future packing practice. A simple clothing planner could help Olivia match clothing choices to the length and activities of a visit. After packing, Olivia could check the bag against the list and explain the sequence used, reinforcing organisation and reflection. Keep the routine practical and encouraging, celebrating each step Olivia completes independently.
Book Recommendations
- The Berenstain Bears and the Trouble with Chores by Stan and Jan Berenstain: A familiar story about taking responsibility for everyday tasks, offering a gentle connection to practising independence.
- What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada: An illustrated book about approaching challenges with curiosity and persistence, useful for discussing confidence while learning a new routine.
- The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn: A reassuring story about connection during time apart, which can support conversation about family visits and transitions.
Try This Next
- Make a picture-based packing checklist for clothes and practise following it.
- Create a simple clothing planner that maps outfits to the days of a visit.
- Invite Olivia to draw or write the packing steps in order.