Building Skills for Independence
Pre-vocational Support for Teens and Young Adults
with Developmental Disabilities
Building Skills for Independence
Pre-vocational Support for Teens and Young Adultswith Developmental Disabilities
The Need
Teens and young adults with developmental disabilities face numerous barriers integrating into their communities and achieving independence as they age into adulthood as well as significant high school and employment attainment gaps.
Statistics Show
%
of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Michigan are unemployed.
These children lag behind their neurotypical peers in acquiring adult roles due to limited opportunities for critical life skill development.
Our Mission
The pre-vocational program at LifeLab Kids empowers teens and young adults with the skills, confidence, and support they need to navigate daily life, contribute meaningfully to their communities, thrive in the workplace, and live independently at home.
Our Vision
We envision a future where all teens and young adults regardless of background or ability have equitable access to the skills, opportunities, and support they need to lead independent lives, shape their communities, and thrive with confidence. GROWing in the areas of Mental Health, Social Connection, Physical Health, and Financial Health.
Our Vision
We envision a future where all teens and young adults regardless of background or ability have equitable access to the skills, opportunities, and support they need to lead independent lives, shape their communities, and thrive with confidence. GROWing in the areas of Mental Health, Social Connection, Physical Health, and Financial Health.
Shaping Independence
Pre-vocational Program Service Areas
Shaping Independence
Pre-vocational Program Service Areas
Vocational skills
Participants practice tasks such as following multi-step directions, completing responsibilities independently, managing time, and working collaboratively—skills essential for success in a variety of job settings. By creating a supportive environment tailored to neurodiverse learners, we help each individual gain the confidence and practical abilities needed to thrive in future employment opportunities.
Workplace and life skills
Participants engage in tasks that promote responsibility, time management, communication, and problem-solving—skills that are critical in both employment settings and daily life. By practicing routines like clocking in, following instructions, and completing team-based projects, participants build the confidence and competence needed to navigate future job opportunities and independent living.
Workplace and life skills
Participants engage in tasks that promote responsibility, time management, communication, and problem-solving—skills that are critical in both employment settings and daily life. By practicing routines like clocking in, following instructions, and completing team-based projects, participants build the confidence and competence needed to navigate future job opportunities and independent living.
Technology
Participants develop essential technology skills, including the use of assistive technology to support communication and independence. Students learn tools like talk-to-text and text-to-speech for better expression and comprehension, how to navigate using Google Maps for travel training, and how to use digital calendars for managing appointments and routines.
Financial literacy
Participants learn the basics of money management in practical, age-appropriate ways. Through hands-on activities like budgeting exercises, mock paychecks, and simulated shopping experiences, students learn the value of earning, saving, and spending responsibly.
Counseling and Mental Health
This program integrates counseling and mental health support to ensure participants are emotionally prepared for workplace and daily life challenges. Licensed therapists provide ongoing guidance, helping participants develop coping strategies, build self-esteem, and manage anxiety or stress related to transitions and new experiences.
Socialization
Through collaborative activities, team-based projects, and real-world simulations, neurodiverse youth learn to communicate effectively, support one another, and build meaningful peer connections.
Supporters of LifeLab Kids Teens and Young Adults Program
Supporters of LifeLab Kids
Teens and Young Adults Program
- Oakland County
- FS Foundation
- JRD Systems
- Pulte Family Foundation
- PNC Foundation
- Equifax
- Carls Foundation
- Sobey Garret Family Fund
Supporting Your Child’s Unique Journey
Visit us today to create a customized strategy for their individual needs.