How do we build independence in money, travel and daily living?

The short answer

Choose one task the young person wants or needs to manage more independently, then identify every step and the support currently making it possible. Practise in the real setting, with the same tools they will be able to use later. Reduce prompting only when the task remains manageable and safe across several ordinary occasions. A teenager may handle money for small purchases, travel on one familiar route or prepare one meal while still needing help in other areas. Progress is better measured by greater choice, reliability and ability to recover from a problem than by whether all support has disappeared.

• Begin with a goal that matters to the young person.
• Work on one real task rather than a broad idea of independence.
• Identify the prompts, equipment and other people already helping.
• Practise the task where and when it will usually happen.
• Keep support that improves safety, access or reliability.
• Teach what to do when the plan changes or something goes wrong.
• Review the effort and recovery the task requires, not only whether it was completed.