For many people with autism and IDD, the transition from high school to adulthood can be very overwhelming. It is a major milestone and requires extensive planning, specialist support and proactive action. The gap from a structured high school environment to complex adulthood is bridged using transition services which ensure young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities leave high school with a plan for future employment, independent living and community participation.
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
The preparation for adulthood starts early due to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) which requires formal transition planning to begin by 16. The student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) not only focuses on academic goals but at this age, begins the shift to adulthood and long-term goals. The student, parents, teachers and specialists all work together to create a suitable plan that identifies the individual’s strengths, needs and preferences for the future.
The transition services focus on 3 vital pillars which are tailored to the individual’s needs.
1. Employment and Further Education
Employment and further education is a priority for many people with IDD. This transition service focuses on helping young people find appropriate jobs, vocational courses or college programs suited to the individual’s strengths that are inclusive and provide the necessary accommodations such as:
- Internships – practical learning, skills and experience in a range of jobs.
- Vocational Rehabilitation – state-funded agencies providing resume assistance, job training and career counselling to help young people find a suitable job.
- Supported employment – job coaches help individuals with training, workplace adjustments and accommodations.
- Further education – help finding inclusive college courses or trade schools that provide accessible accommodations.
2. Independent Living Skills
This transition service helps start the process of independent living for adults with IDD by teaching practical life skills to encourage confidence and independence. Skills include:
- Health and wellbeing – taught how to manage medications, schedule appointments, manage hygiene as well as meal planning, scheduling chores and more household needs.
- Financial skills – how to budget, use a bank account and manage electronic payments.
- Transport / mobility training – how to navigate public transport and time management and encourage independent travel.
- Housing options – helps determine the ideal living situation, whether it’s supported living, shared accommodation or staying at home.
3. Community Integration and Social Connectedness
Adulthood can be isolating and community integration is essential to avoid loneliness. There are many activities for adults with developmental disabilities and autism including social clubs, hobby groups, volunteering and more which ensures no one feels alone.
To help ease the transition from high school to adulthood, there are many autism and intellectual and developmental disability services California has to offer to ensure families receive the right support in all stages of life. Here at Path-Now, you can find an extensive catalogue of services and resources tailored to each individual’s needs to help you navigate this transition with the right support.
