Resources & Materials

Transition to Adult Services

What is in store for youth with disabilities after they leave school? What will happen to your child when they no longer receive the educational services or accommodations which have been mandated by federal law? These questions are important to all parents of youth with special needs, and even though disabilities may vary greatly in their severity or impact, the need to plan for the future is very important.

It is vitally important for families to realize that transition represents the process of moving from school to services provided to all eligible students under their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to services in adult programs that might or might not be available based on varying eligibility criteria and funding sources. Families who begin planning early will have more time to identify concerns, overcome challenges or barriers that arise, and create opportunities which will help their students achieve their goals. Planning for the future early will alleviate disappointment and anxiety as students approach adulthood.

From NO Where to KNOW Where: A Handbook for the Transition to Adult Life

• Adult Services
• Developing the Transition Plan
• Employment
• Empowering Parents
• Graduation
• Laws Affecting Transition
• New Players, New Roles
• Other Transition Concerns for Parents
• Related Topics: Transition
• What Help is Available?
• What is Transition?
• Your Right to Due Process

The Utah Parent Center and our partners across the United States have created a series of fact sheets to help parents understand the transition process.

• ADA and Transition: Q&A
• ADA Q&A: ADA + FMLA = Job Protections for Parents
• ADA Q&A: Back to School
• ADA Q&A: Section 504 and Postsecondary Education
• How Can I Help My Son or Daughter Get That Job?
• Mapping Your Dreams: Community
• Mapping Your Dreams: Education
• Mapping Your Dreams: Employment
• Mapping Your Dreams: Home Living
• Mapping Your Dreams: Recreation