Preparing a special education student for life after school is crucial for his/her success as an adult. Students with disabilities develop a stable support group outside of their caregivers while being schooled, so it is important for them to find that in the adult world. Both caregivers and educators should work together on this transition.

The following tips are critical to a special education student’s adult life:

• Define the student’s adult goals before school is over. Don’t over plan his/her life before consulting the desires of said student.
• Determine what the student’s functional skills are. Are they able to take care of themselves by cooking, cleaning, etc.?
• Prepare for their adult living arrangements based on their level of functional skills. Will they live alone, in an assisted facility or with their childhood caregivers?
• Determine what kind of higher education programs are available, if feasible, that may ensure a happier and more successful adulthood.
• Research various career opportunities based on the individual student’s needs. Will he/she be able to work? If so, then where?
• Caregivers and educators may wish to seek outside help for this transition. Vocational rehabilitation is highly recommended for students who can enter the working world. State vocational rehabilitation agencies can help to prepare the student. A list of available agencies can be found here.

Each special education student has a unique set of circumstances and functional skills. For that reason, it is hard to recommend a career path / living situation without knowing that student’s needs. With cooperation between educators who are familiar with the student, the student’s primary caregivers, and vocational counselors (where applicable), each special education student will have a chance to thrive into adulthood and beyond.

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