Strategies to Transition to Independent Living

Strategies for transition to adulthood should begin prior to the student reaching 14 yrs. The therapist and parents need to discuss the resources in the community and legislative issues that help or assist with funding. We could look in Autismspeaks and ASA for local chapters and begin active participation in support groups. It would be very beneficial for families to talk to other parents in the community to see what resources are available- Awareness. We would look in to the Individualized Education Program for answers as the child turns 21. Parents, families and caregivers need to know about Americans with Disabilities Act, IDEA and the benefits of each. Parents may not always be around, therefore caregivers and other family members must be aware of community support.

Knowing that many children with autism later become successfully employed in the fields of math and science, we would need to identify these strengths early and include them in our interventions- continue to strengthen them. Colleges and Universities are now more supportive of the full inclusion idea. Some programs include Grade13. At any rate, there needs to be early preparation for the transition and likelihood of college education. The ASD individual should be able to select an interest based on his strengths, and the OT and life coach need to be ready to address the social implementations. The young adult should have ample opportunities and encouragement to engage in scouting, little league, soccer clubs, etc. to strengthen his social skills.