Daily routines play a powerful role in a child’s independence and confidence. Tasks such as dressing, eating, following routines, and managing self-care are part of what professionals call Activities of Daily Living (ADL). While many children develop these skills naturally, some require structured support to build them comfortably and confidently.
At Belief Shaping Therapies, Dubai, we support children who experience challenges with ADL through personalised, child-centred therapy approaches that focus on skill-building without pressure.
What are Activities of Daily Living (ADL)?
Activities of Daily Living (ADL) refer to everyday self-care and functional tasks that allow a child to participate independently in daily life. These include:
- Dressing and undressing
- Feeding and mealtime skills
- Toileting routines
- Following daily schedules
- Managing personal hygiene
- Transitioning between activities
Difficulties with ADL can make daily routines stressful for children and families, often leading to frustration or dependence on adults.
Why Some Children Struggle With ADL
Children may face challenges with ADL due to:
- Sensory sensitivities
- Motor coordination difficulties
- Communication challenges
- Difficulty understanding sequences or routines
- Developmental delays or behavioural challenges
When ADL tasks feel overwhelming, children may avoid them, resist routines, or rely heavily on caregivers, even when they want to be independent.
How Therapy Supports ADL Development
At Belief Shaping Therapies, Dubai, therapy focuses on breaking down ADL tasks into manageable, achievable steps. Occupational therapy supports motor planning, sensory regulation, and self-care skills, while ABA therapy helps build consistency, independence, and flexibility within daily routines.
Therapy sessions may involve practising dressing skills, mealtime routines, or following structured sequences in a supportive and encouraging environment. Children are guided at their own pace, ensuring learning feels achievable rather than stressful.
By supporting ADL development through structured practice, children gradually gain confidence in managing daily responsibilities.
The Importance of Consistency and Practice
Developing ADL skills requires repetition and consistency across environments. Therapy helps children practise skills in a controlled setting while guiding families on how to reinforce the same strategies at home.
Parents are supported with practical tools such as visual schedules, routine planning, and step-by-step guidance, making ADL practice more predictable and manageable for children.
Building Independence Over Time
Independence does not happen overnight. As children become more confident with ADL tasks, they begin to rely less on adult assistance and feel more capable in their daily lives. This progress often leads to improved self-esteem, reduced frustration, and smoother family routines.
At Belief Shaping Therapies, Dubai, we believe that supporting ADL skills early helps children participate more fully at home, school, and in community settings.
Partnering With Families in Dubai
Families play a vital role in reinforcing ADL skills beyond therapy sessions. Our therapists work closely with parents to ensure strategies are realistic, culturally appropriate, and easy to implement in everyday life.
If your child is finding daily routines challenging, an assessment at Belief Shaping Therapies, Dubai can help identify supportive strategies and guide the next steps toward independence.