Adaptive skills are the everyday abilities children use to communicate, socialize, care for themselves, learn, and function independently at home, school, and in the community. These skills help children successfully navigate daily routines, relationships, responsibilities, and life expectations.

Children with disabilities may experience delays or challenges in adaptive functioning due to developmental, cognitive, behavioral, emotional, neurological, or communication-related differences. With appropriate support, intervention, coregulation, and individualized instruction, many children can strengthen these skills and increase independence over time.

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