Family members and caregivers have a great deal of knowledge and insight regarding their sons and daughters. They are usually the only one consistent person in the life of a youth or young adult. Family members and caregivers will also still be there after a student graduates from high school and moves on to fulfilling their post-secondary goals. As one parent put it “ we are the transition coordinators for life .”
Therefore it is important for family members and caregivers to have a good understanding of and be actively engaged in the secondary transition process. This page contains information that can assist family members and caregivers in helping to navigate matters concerning post-secondary transition for youth with disabilities.
Family Friendly 1 Page guides
The following series of family friendly 1-page documents are designed to provide brief, concise overviews of prioritized topics that address what parents and family members should consider when supporting their youth in preparing for post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. Click on the document titles, below, to access downloadable versions of each of the 1-pagers
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Exploring the Option of a Two or Four Year College
When considering a two or four-year college, it is important for youth to self-advocate for needs and live as independently as possible. This family friendly 1-page guide describes considerations for discussions family members may have with you considering college options.
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Post-Secondary Education Expectations
This family friendly 1-page guide describes difference between high school and post-secondary education.
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Promoting Independent Living While Still in School
There are many aspects of independence for a young person with a disability and family members to consider. This family friendly 1-page guide addresses examples of activities in the school, home, and community that parents and family members can discuss with their youth.
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Preparing for Employment
When family members have high academic and employment expectations for their children with disabilities, the youth experience greater success in those critical areas. This family friendly 1-page guide addresses considerations for youth employability and the importance of work for youth with disabilities.