Supporting Youth with ASDs
Transitioning
The transition from home and high school, into a more independent life of post-secondary education or work, and adult services is a challenging period for all young adults and especially for many people with ASDs and their families.There will be many questions to address about post-secondary education, vocational training and employment. See also... Life with ASD: Resources for Adults and Youth. A student receiving special education services in public schools should have regular meetings with family and school staff to evaluate the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). When a student reaches high school, these meetings should include planning for the transition from high school to adult life.
The plan should be based on the individual student's needs, skills and interests. It will take into account:
- Options for postsecondary education
- Vocational training and evaluation
- Integrated employment opportunities (including supported employment)
- Continuing and adult education (including social skills, life skills)
- Adult services (financial, health, mental health, etc.)
- Independent living arrangements
- Community participation, recreation and social needs
Parents and caregivers should begin this plan in consultation with school staff as early as possible in order to make the transition to independence as successful as possible. Action is an important component: once goals are set, it will be vital to encourage actions to reach those goals such as volunteer experiences, creating training opportunities and activities leading to skills development, etc.
For more on transitioning.
