Beginning Transition Planning, Age 14-18
Thinking about and planning for adulthood often begins informally, several years before a person turns 18. At age 14, the process becomes more formalized.
By age 16, a young person’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) will begin to address vocational and independent living skills needed for transition to adult living, as well as appropriate educational goals. Public educational services will continue to be available for students through age 22 who have not received a diploma. This is a good time to review the informational brochure by the State Council on Developmental Disabilities (www.scdd.ca.gov). It includes information on the Employment First policy, options for integrated, competitive employment, and post secondary education. This information will enable the person to plan for transition from school to work, and to achieve the transition outcomes.
Public educational services are the primary source of services for this age group. The IEP team will help the young person determine what skills are still needed prior to leaving the public educational system.