Capacity Building Activities to Try With Your Teen

Capacity Building Activities to Try With Your Teen

When teens are given the right support, they thrive.

For many NDIS participants, capacity building is a key goal — whether it’s learning to communicate more clearly, making their own decisions, or building skills for everyday life.

But where do you start?Here are 5 capacity-building activities we use every week with our teen participants — practical, engaging, and designed to support real-world growth.

1. 🧑‍🍳 Cook a Simple Meal Together

Why it works:

• Develops independent living skills

• Builds confidence in a structured, step-by-step format

• Offers sensory input and decision-making (what toppings? which tools?)

Support tip: Start small — like toast, wraps, or pasta — and use visuals or checklists to guide each step.

2. 🛍️ Practice a Community Outing with a Purpose

Why it works:

• Builds independence outside the home

• Strengthens planning, communication, and safety awareness

• Encourages social interaction and real-world problem solving

Support tip: Set a clear task — like buying lunch or picking up one item — and talk through it beforehand.

3. 🎤 Share a Special Interest or Hobby

Why it works:

• Encourages expressive communication and self-esteem

• Builds peer connection

• Helps teens feel seen, valued, and capable

Support tip: Make time for “interest-sharing” during support shifts — even if it’s just 10 minutes to talk about a favourite game, band, or collection.

4. 🎯 Set and Complete a Weekly Goal

Why it works:

• Builds consistency, motivation, and accountability

• Teaches goal-setting as a lifelong skill

• Helps teens link effort with achievement

Support tip: Keep it simple (e.g. “Go for one walk this week” or “Pack my own lunch”) and celebrate all progress — not just completion.

5. 🎨 Explore Creative Expression

Why it works:

• Encourages decision-making and self-reflection

• Promotes regulation through art, music, or movement

• Builds confidence through creating something “of their own”

Support tip: Let them choose their medium — and remind them there’s no wrong answer.

🧡 How Loving Life Supports Teen Capacity Building

At Loving Life, we work with teens on the Gold Coast to build capacity in ways that feel real, achievable, and personal.

✅ Visual supports, gentle routines, and strong relationships

✅ Consistent support workers who understand how teens learn

✅ Safe spaces to try new things and grow at their own pace

✅ Both 1:1 and group options, depending on what suits them best

We don’t rush the process. We walk beside them — and celebrate every win.

💬 Want to Help Your Teen Build Their Skills?

We’d love to chat about how we can support your teen’s growth, confidence, and independence — in real-world, everyday ways.

To check out our Group Programs click here

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