Teens with Support Needs: Entering Adulthood

When teens with support needs approach adulthood, it's time to start thinking about how they will find work, pursue post-secondary education and fully participate in community life as an adult.

The transition into adulthood is an important time for teens to learn how self-direct or manage and make decisions about their future. Teens are encouraged to take a leadership role during this time as individual needs, choices and goals will play a part in the services they want to receive.

• Find government disability resources and services
• Access info and resources for young adults aging out of foster care

Transition Planning

Transition planning should include the teen, their family, service providers, school professionals and ministry support staff. It should start no later than age 14 and go until the age of 25. Usually the plan is started by the teen’s teacher or social worker and is made up of a team of people who either support the teen now, or will play a role when the teen becomes an adult.

• Learn about the roles and tasks for a successful transition plan (PDF)
• Read the entire Youth Transition Protocol (PDF)