LIFE SKILLS INSTRUCTOR – HEALTHY EATING SKILLS PROGRAM

Program Overview The Healthy Eating Skills "Little Mixers" for Life Program helps youth and adults with Down syndrome and autism build confidence, independence, and practical life skills. Participants learn healthy meal preparation, nutrition awareness, kitchen safety, grocery shopping, budgeting, and community safety.

Position Purpose The Life Skills Instructor leads weekly Healthy Eating Skills classes, providing hands‑on cooking instruction, adapted learning supports, and a safe, inclusive environment. The role requires strong experience supporting individuals with Down syndrome and autism.

Key Responsibilities

- Teach weekly Healthy Eating Skills classes using hands‑on cooking and nutrition activities.
- Adapt menus, recipes, and instructions using pictures, step‑by‑step visuals, simplified text, and communication supports.
- Support students who use AAC devices, visual supports, or signing.
- Maintain high‑level safety in the kitchen (heat, knives, equipment) and in the community (crosswalks, public spaces, group supervision).
- Provide patient, structured support for students with Down syndrome, autism, and other developmental disabilities.
- Prepare ingredients, materials,



and equipment before class; clean and reset the space afterward.
- Report incidents, concerns, or safety issues immediately.
- Uphold LMDSS values and represent the organization professionally.

Qualifications
- Minimum 2 years' experience working with individuals with Down syndrome, autism, or developmental disabilities.
- Required training: CSW, EA, IESW, Disability Support Worker, or equivalent.
- Comfortable using AAC devices, visual supports, and basic signing.
- Able to create picture‑based menus, visual schedules, and adapted instructions.
- Strong understanding of kitchen safety and community safety.
- Current First Aid & CPR certification required.
- Food Secure Level 1 preferred.
- Genuine passion for cooking and teaching life skills.
- Clear criminal record check required.

Hours & Compensation
- Contract position; hours vary by program cycle.
- Typically, 3–4 hours per class, including setup and cleanup.
- Compensation: $35/hour

Reporting Structure
- Reports to: Executive Director, LMDSS
- Works with: Program Assistants, Volunteers, and LMDSS staff

Pay: Up to $35.00 per hour Expected hours: 4.0 per week

Benefits

- On-site parking

Work Location: In person

📌 LIFE SKILLS INSTRUCTOR – HEALTHY EATING SKILLS PROGRAM (Surrey)
🏢 Lower Mainland Down Syndrome Society The
📍 Surrey