Transition

The transition from school to life in the real world is challenging, and holds additional complexities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In this section, you'll find resources on how people with IDD can make the transition from high school to postsecondary education and competitive work in the community.

Supporting Parents of Transition Age Youths with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Findings from a Facebook Group Using Tools from Charting the LifeCourse

This brief shares findings from a research study conducted with parents of youths with intellectual and developmental disabilities who participated in a 6-month transition planning intervention. This intervention was based on content from Charting the LifeCourse’s (CtLC) Daily Life and Employment Toolkit. We delivered the intervention through a private Facebook group.

Our Stories - Young Adults, Work, and Personal Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This archived webinar from May, 2020 features the stories of self-advocates employed to conduct research on transition practices. These researchers shared how social distancing and the use of technology have affected their work and other parts of their lives, such as staying in touch with family, friends, and support staff.

Lessons Learned from the Learning Academy: Optimizing Transition Supports for Young Adults with Autism

The Learning Academy (TLA) at the University of South Florida is a 30-week transition program for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) between the ages of 18 and 25. The program provides services, supports, and experiential opportunities, with the aim of enhancing skills that will prepare students to succeed in the workplace and postsecondary education settings.

Considering Community Service: Career Development for Youth With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Introduction

Limited employment outcomes of young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and a recent surge in incidence of ASD diagnosis indicate a need for more effective school-to-work transition interventions. Community service opportunities can support young adults with ASD to gain skills, explore careers, and develop networks that can lead to meaningful employment.

Partnerships in Employment: State Self-Assessment Toolkit for Systems Change in the Transition of Youth and Young Adults with IDD from High School

This self-assessment tool was developed for those who wish to embark on state-wide governmental systems change to improve high school transition and employment outcomes for youth and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Its purpose is to aid in the development of a work plan that is based on a review of the state policies, practices, and strategies that impact transition from school and opportunities for competitive integrated employment of youth and young adults with IDD.