Life Skills for Independence
A structured person-centered day program helping young adults with autism, developmental disabilities, learning differences, and other support needs build the skills, confidence, and independence to thrive in adult life.
AGES SERVED
18+
SCHEDULE
Up to 5 Days / Week
LOCATION
South Etobicoke
One program. Everyday independence.
Life Skills for Independence (LSI) is The MindShift Academy's core day program for neurodivergent young adults aged 18–38 with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as autism, developmental abilities or learning differences. It's built around one idea: independence isn't one skill, it's dozens of small ones, learned over time, in real settings, with people who believe in you.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Our members move through a rotating curriculum covering areas such as communication, cooking and nutrition, navigating the city, money management, creative arts, the outdoors, employment skills, and health; all within a consistent weekly structure that builds routine and confidence.
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WHO CAN JOIN
Ages 18 - 38
Young adults with intellectual or developmental disability
Goal of increasing independence
Able to participate in community settings (without support)
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN
Practical life skills across focus areas
Stronger communication and self-advocacy
Consistent personal growth
Young adults with intellectual or developmental disability
PROGRAM DETAILS
Days Per week
Group Size
Member support options
Up to 5 days / Week
Up to 15 participants
1:1, 2:1, and 3:1
Program Hours
9:00am - 4:00pm
Transportation Support
Wheel Trans, TransHelp (tracked by The MindShift Academy staff).
What our members learn.
CURRICULUM
01
Life & Executive Functioning Skills
Members develop routines, use visual schedules, improve time management, and take on personal responsibility to increase independence.
Household & Daily Living Skills
Members practice essential tasks such as dishwashing, laundry, meal prep, organizing living spaces, gardening, and caring for pets. These activities teach responsibility, organization, and self-sufficiency.
Personal Appearance & Dressing Skills
Members gain confidence by selecting appropriate clothing for work, social outings, and community events, while practicing hygiene, grooming, and self-expression.
Cooking & Nutrition Skills
Members learn to prepare meals safely using visual recipes, shop for groceries, compare prices, and understand payment methods. Programs include inclusive cooking practices for dietary restrictions and group meal routines.
03
02
04
Through guided conversations, role-playing, and social exercises, members develop personal boundaries, peer relationships, and teamwork.
Communication & Social Skills
05
Emotional & Wellness Regulation
Daily check-ins, sensory strategies, structured reflection, and staff support help members manage emotions, develop coping skills, and increase self-awareness.
06
Community integration & Transit Training
Weekly TTC outings and trips to libraries, parks, and community spaces help members build confidence navigating public spaces safely.
07
Community & Vocational Experience
08
Members explore volunteer and employment opportunities through local partnerships. They gain skills in time management, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and professional responsibility while contributing to the community.
Creative Expression & Recreation
Our programs include art, music, dance, drama, storytelling, fitness, and seasonal celebrations. Members explore personal interests, build confidence, and participate in community activities.
09
Bi-weekly trips include bowling, movies, museums, ceramics, dining out, and other recreational experiences to promote independence, social connection, and fun.
Community Outings (Optional, extra free)
10
August in the program.
Life Skills for Independence (LSI) is The MindShift Academy's core day program for neurodivergent young adults aged 18–38 with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as autism, developmental abilities or learning differences. It's built around one idea: independence isn't one skill, it's dozens of small ones, learned over time, in real settings, with people who believe in you.
WHAT'S IN
Our members move through a rotating curriculum covering areas such as communication, cooking and nutrition, navigating the city, money management, creative arts, the outdoors, employment skills, and health; all within a consistent weekly structure that builds routine and confidence.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
WHO CAN JOIN
Ages 18 - 38
Young adults with intellectual or developmental disability
Goal of increasing independence
Able to participate in community settings (without support)
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN
Practical life skills across focus areas
Stronger communication and self-advocacy
Consistent personal growth
Young adults with intellectual or developmental disability
PROGRAM DETAILS
Days Per week
Group Size
Member support options
Up to 5 days / Week
Up to 15 participants
1:1, 2:1, and 3:1
Program Hours
9:00am - 4:00pm
Transportation Support
Available, tracked by The MindShift Academy staff.
"We don't measure success by how much support someone needs, at The MindShift Academy we measure it by the progress they make, the confidence they gain, and the independence they achieve at their own pace."
Maria Iarossi & Oana Curelaru
The MindShift Academy Co-founders
Program Gallery
A glimpse into the everyday life in the Life Skills Program - learning, laughing, and growing together.
Ready to take the first step?
Fill the form
Fill the enrolment form or give us a call; whichever feels easier.
Tour the Centre
Come meet the team, see the space, ask every question you have.
Schedule a trial visit
We'll have everything ready. You just need to show up.
The MindShift Academy
A day program in South Etobicoke helping young adults with disabilities build confidence, independence, and real-world skills to thrive.
© 2025. All rights reserved.
PROGRAM
Life Skills Program (LSI)
OTHER SERVICES
Culinary Experience
Interactive Kitchen Space
COMPANY
About Us
Community
SUPPORT
Contact Us
Enrolment
FAQ
3737 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON.
(416) 562 5442
info@themindshiftacademy.ca