Many people without disabilities wear shoes that slip on, like loafers, sandals, or those that have velcro straps. Teenagers think it is cool to leave their laces untied. Many people do not count change, but throw it right in their pockets or use MAC cards. Yet, for children with disabilities, teaching them these types of skills are often the main focus. Our systems are designed that children with disabilities must master life skills to earn access to the things that can provide quality of life.
Schools tell parents their job is to teach academics.
I feel that life skills, without the things that give most people's lives quality, are of little significance. We put the cart in front of the horse when we expect life skills will give children the ingredients for a happy productive life. In addition, children with disabilities are put under a magnifying glass and analyzed over and over again. Some people believe in grouping children separate to learn life skills because they feel the world will not adapt for each child. That children need skills first before they can belong in the bigger world.