ABOUT OUR PROGRAMS
At Yarmouth Life Skills, we believe that every individual has the right to live and work with dignity. Our programming promotes personal growth, social development, and life skill enhancement through community integration opportunities, small group activities, and hands-on learning experiences.
We proudly serve adults who require ongoing support in developing social and life skills, empowering each participant to reach their fullest potential and take an active, meaningful role in their community.
Opening
Each morning at Yarmouth Life Skills begins with a fun and structured group routine that helps participants start their day with focus and confidence. Together, we talk about the date and weather, explore geography and money concepts, discuss current events, and proudly sing “O Canada.” These morning openings encourage communication, awareness, and a sense of community—setting a positive tone for the day ahead.
Mariners on Main
Participants can enjoy access to the gymnasium, swimming pool, interactive room, and limited equipment in the fitness area. These opportunities promote physical wellness, social connection, and confidence through movement and recreation. Whether swimming, playing games, or exploring interactive activities, our participants stay active while having fun in a safe and supportive environment.
Baking/Cooking
Each week, participants take part in our Hot Lunch Program, where they learn valuable kitchen and teamwork skills. They are supervised and supported in preparing the weekly meal, and baking for monthly birthday parties (cupcakes/cakes/cookies ) while gaining confidence in cooking, following instructions, and contributing to a shared community experience.
Hot Lunch
Once a week, instead of bringing a bag lunch, participants and staff enjoy a hot meal prepared by the participants as part of our cooking and life skills program. The meal is offered for $5.00, that participants help make under supervision. This program encourages teamwork, independence, and pride while teaching valuable cooking, budgeting, and meal-planning skills.
Library
Once a week, participants take part in a small-group outing to the Yarmouth Library, where they walk or drive together to borrow books related to the month’s theme. These visits encourage reading, community involvement, and lifelong learning while helping participants explore new topics in a supportive and engaging environment.
Housekeeping
Each participant is assigned a specific job or role each week, fostering responsibility, independence, and teamwork. These weekly tasks help participants contribute to the smooth operation of the program, gain a sense of accomplishment, and develop transferable skills they can use in work, volunteer, and community settings.
Life Skills
Our Life Skills development sessions focus on building everyday skills that promote confidence and independence. Topics include communication, how to interact appropriately with strangers, identifying and expressing feelings, telephone etiquette, decision-making, money management, health and wellness, and more. Through hands-on activities and guided discussions, participants strengthen the practical and social skills needed to thrive in daily life and community settings.
Gardening
Thanks to a generous grant from the Community Foundation, we added a hydroponic tower to our program. This exciting addition allows participants to garden year-round, explore sustainable growing methods, and enjoy the pride of nurturing something from seed to harvest—no matter the season.
Sensory Room
Yarmouth Life Skills features a Snoezelen sensory room available to all participants, providing a calming and engaging space designed to support emotional regulation and relaxation. This room offers a variety of sensory tools and experiences that help individuals manage stress, build focus, and develop coping strategies. Thanks to a generous TELUS grant, we were able to enhance and upgrade this space, making it an even more inviting and therapeutic environment for everyone to enjoy.
Yoga
Participants take part in weekly yoga sessions led by a local yoga instructor who has worked with our program for many years. Her calm, adaptive approach creates a welcoming space where everyone can participate at their own pace and ability.
Yoga offers many benefits for individuals with disabilities, including improved flexibility, balance, and coordination, as well as stress reduction, emotional regulation, and increased body awareness. These sessions also encourage mindfulness, confidence, and relaxation, helping participants connect with both their bodies and minds in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Conquerors Challenge
The Conquerors Challenge encourages participants to stay active, set personal walking goals, and celebrate their achievements. As a group we track our progress over time, working toward milestones that promote movement, endurance, and overall wellness.
As we reach our goals, we earn medals and recognition for our hard work and perseverance. This program not only supports physical health and mobility, but also builds confidence, motivation, and a sense of accomplishment. Walking together fosters friendship, community connection, and the joy of moving toward success—one step at a time.
Art
Participants have the opportunity to explore their creativity through art. We’re fortunate to have two talented local artists who generously volunteer their time to teach and inspire our participants. Their guidance helps individuals develop artistic skills, express themselves, and experience the joy and confidence that comes from creating something uniquely their own
Crafts
Our craft sessions change throughout the year, reflecting different themes, holidays, and occasions. Participants work with a variety of mediums such as wood, flower arranging, paper, paint, and clay, allowing them to explore new skills and creative expressions. Each project encourages imagination, fine motor development, and a sense of pride in creating something unique to share or display.
YLS Employability
Yarmouth Life Skills proudly hosts the Employability Program in partnership with ESIA/DOSD. This initiative helps people develop the practical and personal skills needed to prepare for employment. Through hands-on learning, workshops, and community experiences, individuals gain confidence, workplace readiness, and the tools to pursue meaningful work opportunities.
Pet Therapy
Participants enjoy visits to the local SPCA and have opportunities to interact with pets brought in by staff and community members. These experiences allow participants to walk, feed, and socialize with animals, promoting empathy, responsibility, and emotional well-being through meaningful connections with furry friends.
Outings
We plan community outings based on participant themes, interests, and seasonal holidays. These trips provide hands-on learning experiences and help participants engage with their community in meaningful ways. Examples include apple picking in the fall, visiting farms, enjoying picnics at local parks, exploring the lighthouse, touring the fire department, or visiting the cenotaph. Each outing encourages social connection, physical activity, and community inclusion while creating lasting memories.
Shopping
Participants learn important independent living skills through our grocery shopping program. Activities include making a grocery list, checking flyers for sales, navigating the store, using a shopping cart, locating items, paying for purchases, and putting groceries away upon return. This hands-on experience helps build confidence, money management, planning, and real-world problem-solving skills—all essential for everyday independence.