The Journey to Adulthood: Transition Planning in Idaho
Families whose child is almost 18 face unique challenges when thinking about their youth transitioning into an adult. Often, youth with disabilities have the need for additional training, supports and services outside of those offered in the educational setting. For families this can be a confusing time that can be difficult to navigate. It is best to start thinking about transition for a child by the ages of 15-17 years old.
In Idaho, schools must work to help students with disabilities plan for graduation and life after high school. This is called transition planning. The school staff, case manager, vocational rehabilitation counselor, the family and the student all are involved in this planning.
There are also a number of agencies that can help with transition planning.
Idaho Parents Unlimited has a number of resources that can be accessed at https://www.ipulidaho.org/transition-to-adulthood.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare also has a number of good resources and those can be accessed at https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/Children/ChildrensSpecialHealthProgram/HealthCareTransitiontoAdulthood/tabid/1472/Default.aspx.
Community Partnerships of Idaho provides support and guidance to families as they navigate the systems and processes required by state and federal agencies to access and change services for their young adults.
Community Partnerships offers valuable educational training for youth and parents to increase confidence throughout the process. The goal during these difficult times is to ensure the youth have the resources and services they need to live life to the fullest.
Community Partnerships transition services include:
- Transitional Planning
- Navigating the Process
- Transition Orientation and Education Nights for Parents
- Employment and Job Readiness Training
- Individualized Education Plan and Plan Development Support
- Community Advocacy
- Volunteer Experience Opportunities
More information can be found at https://www.mycpid.com/services/transition/
