Sims?

I'm looking for some ideas to use Sims 2 to encourage independent living skills, writing, budgeting, and social skills in students with learning disabilities and autism. 
I've used Hollywood High in the past for the writing and social skills, but the software hasn't been updated, and since we had problems getting it to run with Windows 2000, I cannot imagine it would ever run on Vista.  I've explored making my own neighborhood, so will definitely use this option.
I have 3 laptops, and my largest class is 10, so we'll be doing group work.  I'm kind of iffy on how group work will succeed with Sims, though.  It is definitely something the students need to work on, but I have some that want total control, and some that don't do anything.  I'd also like to create materials and rubrics so they know how they are being graded.