Navigating the Transition
A Guide for Parents of Disabled Children
As parents, we understand the love, dedication, and challenges that come with raising a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As your child approaches their teenage years, it becomes crucial to start planning for their transition into adulthood. This period can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and guidance, you can pave the way for a successful future. In this week’s Waypoints, we will explore the importance of preparing for the transition period.
What is Transition Planning?
Transition planning is a process that helps individuals with disabilities smoothly navigate the shift from school to adult life. It involves setting goals, identifying necessary supports, and preparing for post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, and independent living. As parents, you play a crucial role in this process, serving as advocates for your child's needs and aspirations.
It’s important to remember this transition is your child’s, not yours. They should have a say in what their life is going to look at, even if they don’t use words to communicate or you don’t think they understand what’s going on. Treat them as if they do. Allow them to contribute as much as they can. And acknowledge their contributions, don’t talk over them or dismiss what they bring up as “impossible”.
Collaborate with school and support services
Working collaboratively with your child's school and support services is key to a successful transition. Reach out to the school's special education department to understand their transition planning process and ensure your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) reflects their goals beyond high school. Additionally, connect with local support organizations or disability service agencies to access resources, guidance, and workshops specifically tailored for parents and caregivers.
Your child should be given the option to attend every meeting. Again, do not dismiss them because of their perceived capabilities. Always treat them as equals during this process. If it helps, put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel if your parents decided what the rest of your life would look like without asking you? Think about the last time you were powerless, how did it make you feel?
To get support for your child when they are an adult you need to apply for your state’s Medicaid Waiver. In most states, this can be done at any age, as long as there is a qualifying diagnosis. Every state has at least (1) waiver to provide support for individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental disabilities. However, since they are administered by the state, no two programs are the same. If you’re looking for information about your state, I encourage you to purchase a Roadmap. I built them for all 50 states and DC, and am constantly reviewing information to ensure they stay up to date.
Another great resource is Transition Fairs. To the best of my knowledge, every state has them. These are great opportunities for you to meet provider agencies. Podcasts like “Parenting Impossible”, “LOMAH”, “ABCs of Disability Planning”, and “Raising Kellan”, to name a few of my favorites, can give you a lot of great information. If none of these help and you don’t know where to start, reach out to me. I offer 30-minute Pick My Brain sessions.
