Transitioning to Adulthood with Confidence

The transition to adulthood is one of the most significant — and often most challenging — periods for autistic individuals and their families. Research consistently shows that this transition can be difficult, with many autistic adults reporting that support and services drop off sharply once they leave the school system.

But with careful planning, strong advocacy, and the right supports, this transition can also be a time of genuine growth, discovery, and expanding possibility.

Start early: Transition planning should ideally begin well before high school graduation. By age 16, IEPs should include explicit transition goals and plans. These should cover employment, post-secondary education, independent living, and community participation — based on the young person's actual interests and goals.

Employment and meaningful activity: Employment is important not just for financial independence but for identity, structure, and social connection. However, 'employment' should be interpreted broadly — volunteering, internships, supported employment, and creative or entrepreneurial paths are all valid. The key is meaningful activity that aligns with the person's strengths and interests.

Independent living skills: These skills are best taught in real-world contexts over time — not in a crash course before adulthood. Managing money, cooking, transportation, health care, and housing all deserve sustained, practical attention during adolescence.

Self-advocacy: Perhaps the most important skill for adult life is self-advocacy — knowing one's own rights, needs, and how to communicate them effectively. This should be developed starting in adolescence, with young autistic people increasingly included in their own IEP and transition planning meetings.

Building a support network: Formal services and family support are important, but so is a personal network of friends, mentors, peers, and community members. Investing in relationships and community during the transition years pays dividends throughout adulthood.