Adult Transitions

The Adult Life Committee is made up of parents whose children have already transitioned or those who have knowledge of transitioning into adulthood. Their goal is to gain a better understanding of the various transition aspects as they are anticipated and/or experienced by Dupers and their Families. Their intention is to identify the aspects that are most critical and, through the work of the Adult Life Committee, develop the resources and strategies which will help families achieve successful outcomes.

Tips from the Adult Life Committee

• Start looking in your communities for transition programs around age 15/16. (Adult living, day programs, rec programs)
• Every time you talk to someone you will learn something. 
• You can cultivate contacts and information as you go. The earlier you go the better. 
• Reach out to other families in your community that have adult children with disabilities, they can help you navigate resources in your community.
• Start cultivating friendship groups for your child. Learning leisure activities is so important.
• As your child is coming up to the transition years, create a “Visual Resume” to share with potential programs. (your child’s school can help with this) Many programs will do an interview with your family.
• If you were to choose any skill to focus on in the teen years it should be understanding and communicating Yes/No. This opens up a world of choices and independence for your child. 
• Never give up hope.