Transition brings new challenges in many areas of life: further education/training, employment, sexuality and relationships, healthcare management, finances, independent living, safety. The list goes on and families can feel overwhelmed.
Becoming more independent is a natural part of transition whether or not a child has special needs. Families want to encourage their child, but transition-aged individuals may be resistant to the plans and goals that their parents suggest. This is actually a positive indication that your child is ready to assume more responsibility for their own decisions.

Opportunities have grown tremendously in recent years. Businesses are beginning to hire more workers who may need some support. Inclusive university programs on some campuses mean students with an intellectual disability have an opportunity to attend a college program that prepares them for a successful transition.

“Prepare to be surprised!” as one mom recently commented.

Children need their parents at every age, but parent roles change as a child moves toward adulthood. Chances are, you’ve put in much time and effort advocating for your child over the years. Together you’ve celebrated milestones and new achievements.
Transitioning to adulthood means a young person will be advocating much more for their own needs, pursuing their interests, and creating a life for themselves that will be different from how they have lived as a child or teen.

Even those individuals who need a great deal of support can become independent, speak up about preferences and make decisions with support as they move toward a full life.

The challenge of a successful transition to adulthood is that it involves many areas of life. Interests, strengths, challenges and needs are different for every family so it is critical for success that a transition plan is personalized.

Many families finding it daunting to know where to begin—and where to find the time. Sometimes their child may actually seem resistant to looking to the future.

Adulthood can seem a distant abstract notion for a child who learns concretely. Relying on parents for addressing transition may be actually counter to the goals of transition.

Families are faced with finding ways to balance support for a child entering adulthood, maintain high expectations, and observe their child getting their footing in this new stage of life.

Coaching can provide the focus, structure, and support that allow families to move forward successfully using available tools and strategies.

Children need their parents at every age, but parent roles do change as a child moves toward adulthood. Chances are, you’ve put in much time and effort advocating for your child over the years. Together you’ve celebrated milestones and new achievements.

Coaching can support you to find emerging role that lets you and your child be close while allowing for new life roles as your child moves toward adulthood.