Ten Tips

10 Tips That May Help Ease Your Child's Transition to Adulthood

1. Help Build your son's or daughter's self-determination and self-advocacy skills.
All young people should have a strong sense of their strengths, abilities, and interest.
2. Help develop your child's social outlets.
Social relationships and recreation are more than fun; they are important tools that help tie people into the community and provide a wider network of support.
3. Expand your network and explore community supports.
As children with disabilities become adults with disabilities, they may need support from a variety of sources.
4. At age 18, your child can register to vote and make sure your son registers with Selective Services.
All Americans at the age of 18 have the right and responsibility to vote. All Males-including those with disabilities-must register with Selective Services within 30 days their 18th Birthday.
5. Explore post-secondary accommodations
Students who receive academic programming and support in high school through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans will not automatically have the same support after they graduate.
6. Investigate SSI programs.
Financial planning is an important part of transition. Many people with disabilities are beneficiaries of Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
7. Encourage your child to build a resume by volunteering.
Many young people struggle to find work experiences that help them compete in the job market.
8. Help your child learn "Soft" employment skills.
In addition to the work skills people need to their jobs, they also need "soft skills" These include such things as being able to accept direction, ask for help, deal with conflict, and engage in interpersonal communication.
9. Plan for health care management.
Like most people, young adults with disabilities need to manage their health care and insurance.
10. Look for Resources and People that can assist you.