Children with poor adaptive skills often need direct instruction and might not be able to do many basic tasks for themselves like bathe, brush hair, brush teeth, or wash face and hands. They might not be able to independently put on or take off their clothes or shoes. They might not be able to eat without assistance.

At what age should you expect your child to be independent in daily life activities:

• Start to pick up finger food to feed himself by the age of 6 months
• Eat independently starting 18 months
• Drink from a cup without spilling by 24 months
• Wash face and hands without help by 3 years
• Put on shoes without laces by the age of 3 years
• Dress without assistance by 4 years
• Brush teeth and comb hair at 4 years

If your child is at the age where he/she should be doing things on his/her own and you find that they are not able to or constantly needing your assistance, it is advisable to fill ONESTI’s Independent Me checklist and speak with our professional to know more about your child’s adaptive skills. ONESTI will provide you with guidance and strategies to help your child gain increased independence in daily routine activities.