Transition 101 #2 : Transition checklists

Posted byCheryl FarleyPosted inUncategorized

I have yet to meet a checklist that I don’t like! I personally feel a sense of satisfaction when I can look at a list that is broken down into specific pieces, with the ability to either place a checkmark or cross off the item once it is completed.

With transition planning, there is A LOT to think about and navigate through. So if you are like me and want to have a “one stop document” to go through to act as your transition guide, here are some that I have used over the years:

  1. The Turning 18 Checklist: created by Catherine Boyle at Autism Housing Pathways, this is a straightforward, one page document that discusses those “big items” that can get completed once your child turns 18. It’s a good idea to take a look at this list before age 18 so that you are not surprised! She also provides a “Resources” list with links to different federal and state organizations related to those items on her list. You can find it on her website: www.autismhousingpathways.net
  2. The Transition from School to Adult Life-Time Lines by The Arc of Massachusetts: This is a more comprehensive handout that begins with what to do related to transition starting at age 13 going up to age 22. They also have a fact sheet that discusses the State and Federal Laws regarding transition services (related to Massachusetts). When you first look at the bullet points, it can seem overwhelming, but some of the items do repeat from year to year.
  3. The Federation for Children with Special Needs Transition handouts: this organization provides individual pamphlets on the various transition topics. These pamphlets can be found by clicking on the above link; this will bring you to the “Young Adults Resource-Transition” page. Some titles include: TIPS: The Secondary Planning Process, TIPS: The Transition Assessment, TIPS: Self Determination and many more!

In upcoming blog posts, I will break down some of the specific areas within these checklists, but this is a good place to start to get a general overview of what the process can look like between the ages of 13-22 years old.

Are there any transition checklists that YOU have used that you liked? If yes, leave a comment and I will share with the group in future posts!

-Cheryl