The father of a retarded adult describes the development of a course designed to teach independent living skills to mentally retarded adults living in a group home in Israel. The course included instruction on home management, food preparation, and interpersonal skills. How initial neighborhood opposition diminished is recounted. Difficulties faced by newcomers are described, including proper hygiene and social skills. The differences between a hostel (a larger home) and the smaller flat are noted, and a chart depicts four stages toward independence of residents. (CL)