ADL

01 Feb ADL

What is ADL?

Activities of Daily living or Self-care skills are everyday tasks done to maintain proper hygiene and health.

This includes getting dressed, brushing your teeth, taking showers, etc. These skills are also referred to as activities of daily living (ADL’s).

When children are young, the caregivers in their lives typically help them with activities of daily living. However, as children get older, the responsibility falls on them.

It’s never too early to start teaching these skills. For example, when parents are giving young children baths, it’s helpful to talk through the process with them.

Basic ADL

Dressing

Can your child tolerate wearing dress?

Does your show difficulty in getting dressed or has discomfort with dress tags or accessories ?

Can your child identify the front and back of their dress?

Eating

Does your child like to explore different varieties of food?

Is your child’s meal time a happy time?

Is your child comfortable in using utensils to feed himself or herself?

Bathing

Is your child aware of the sequence of cleaning or showering?

Is your child safe to get in and out of shower?

Toileting

Is your child able to indicate their urge to use the restroom?

Is your child able to clean after toileting themselves completely after toileting?

If you find your child having difficulties in getting their basic ADL , please do get an opinion from your Paediatrician who can address the concern and refer for further support.