Preparing Students with Developmental Disabilities for Life After High School

Why transition planning matters?

Planning for adulthood can feel overwhelming for families, especially when many supports change at age 18. Transition planning helps youth build confidence, learn new skills, and stay connected to the supports they will need in adult life. Starting early gives more time to explore options, understand next steps, and make informed decisions. It is never late to begin. 


Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the access point for adult developmental services. Youth must apply to DSO to see if they are eligible for adult developmental services. DSO connects people to available services and supports in their community so that they can become more independent and actively involved in their communities. 



This newsletter will provide practical, step-by-step information to help families and professionals support a smoother and more successful transition into adulthood. In this edition, we are happy to introduce you to some useful resources used extensively by many service agencies in York Region. 
 

Essential steps to prepare for adulthood - a six-step guide


Here is a practical guide that maps out key areas of transition planning, starting from around age 14 into adulthood. 


School Transition Goals (Individual Education Plan/ IEP)

This is a good time to align school goals with future needs such as employment, life skills, and greater independence.

What and Why

Set goals in school and map how they link to life after high school. This ensures transition is a regular part of school discussions and is included in the IEP. An active approach aligns learning and supports with future employment, life skills and independence.

Pro-tip

Ask yourself: “What do I want to be able to do when I’m 21?"

Age

14 - 18

Resources


DSO Application

Begin eligibility assessments and planning at age 16 to ensure continuity of supports into adulthood. 

What and Why

Begin conversations and gather documents around eligibility for adult supports early. You can contact DSO at age 16 to start the process; this ensures a smoother hand-off from children’s services to adult services.

Pro-tip

Once determined eligible, request Passport funding as a service to support community participation and caregiver respite.

Age

16+

Resources


Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) Application

Applying to ODSP before turning 18 can help secure income and benefits needed for stability in adult life.

What and Why

Understand and prepare for Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and how it intersects with adult developmental services. You could consider applying to ODSP Employment supports for permanent part time work. Apply for ODSP income supports six months prior to the 18th birthday. This can help provide income stability and benefits - foundational piece of adult independence. 

Pro-tip

You may ask ODSP staff for more information about how to access employment related supports in your community. 

Age

17 1/2 - 18 

Resources


Health and Consent Planning

Youth begin taking a more active role in their healthcare, including gaining skills for decision-making and self-advocacy.

What and Why

Youth begin taking a more active role in their healthcare, including gaining skills for decision-making and managing one’s own healthcare, consent, and selfadvocacy. Look for tools and resources for to help prepare for healthcare appointments. The goal is to make communicating with healthcare providers easier and to learn healthy habits. Small steps taken regularly can help develop some skills and systems for managing one’s own healthcare, consent, and advocacy in the long run.

Pro-tip

Learn about services for adults in your community. For example, your doctor or dentist may only serve children.

Age

Starting as early as 10

Resources


Employment and Community Participation

Encouraging social connections, recreation, further education and volunteer or employment experiences can build confidence and a sense of belonging.

What and Why

Explore recreation, volunteering, employment, social connections, further education and community inclusion. Consider how to develop a life outside of the immediate family, highlighting strengths. It helps build social networks, belonging and meaningful routines that carry into adulthood.

Pro-tip

Connect with community agencies that can support camp experiences, social groups, respite and skill building activities. You can also look into some transitional community programs starting at age 14-21.

Age

14-21

Resources


Future Planning

Planning ahead for housing, transportation, and support networks reduces uncertainty later on.

What and Why

Youth begin taking a more active role in their healthcare, including gaining skills for decision-making and self-advocacy. Look ahead at housing, transportation, support networks, and adult life goals as long-term stability requires thought, time, and early preparation.

Pro-tip

Ask yourself “Where - might I live when I’m 21?” and start discussions early.

Age

16+

Resources
 
 

Real stories: What successful transitions can look like
 

Every transition is unique, but hearing from others can provide reassurance and inspiration. The video below highlights a family’s journey as their child moves toward greater independence through thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and early action. 

When youth have opportunities to build skills and confidence, possibilities open - one step at a time. Watch the story here.


We are here to help! The Youth Transition teams at DSO are available to support families and community partners through each planning step. If you have questions about the transition process, need help understanding next steps, or would like guidance using available resources, please connect with us: Find your area DSO
 
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If possible, please take a moment to forward this to your contacts in high schools and children’s services professionals in your district, so they may share with educators, students, youth and families. 


To print a copy of this newsletter for distribution, you can download a PDF:
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Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) | 3-240 Edward St. | Aurora, ON L4G 3S9 CA

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