While IDEA mandates that transition planning for students with disabilities should start when they turn 16, research has shown that the sooner you start thinking about post-secondary transition the more likely you are to receive the services and supports you need to be successful once you graduate from high school. Most schools will start the conversation with students during their freshman year, and will usually complete transition assessments every year to help form a foundation of skills to build on.

 

Parents are encouraged to start talking to their child early about their disability, strengths, needs, and accommodations in preparation for leading an fully independent adult life.  In addition, the more you promote self-advocacy and self-determination early on, the more likely your child will be ready to talk about what they need in college.

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So, what does this mean?  Ideally, your child should be an active participant in his/her IEP meeting starting in middle school.  He/she should be able to talk about his/her disability, strengths, needs, and preferences. He/she should be familiar with what accommodations and supports are in his/her IEP and be able to explain why he/she needs them.

 

Ultimately, your goal should be for your child to be their own voice, and for you to speak up to supplement or support them and what they are asking for.