What is one of the essential skills developmentally delayed students should learn for living independently?

Basic cooking and household maintenance are fundamental skills for students with developmental delays as they prepare for independent living. Learning to cook allows individuals to plan and prepare nutritious meals, which is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Household maintenance skills, such as cleaning, laundry, and basic repairs, contribute to managing a household effectively.

These skills foster a sense of autonomy and self-sufficiency, empowering students to take care of themselves and their living spaces. While advanced personal hygiene techniques and social networking skills are also beneficial, the focus on cooking and maintenance directly addresses the day-to-day needs of independent living. Investment strategies, while important for financial literacy, are not typically a priority for the immediate self-care and maintenance needs that individuals must manage independently.