'Strengthening a Learner's Transition to Independence'

Welcome to our first edition of the MITTIN Memo.

We are excited to launch the MITTIN Memo as a way to connect and share updated information regarding Michigan Transition To Independence or MITTIN. In this edition, we have included a bit about the benefits to learners, resources for those who support learners in transition and our partners. When you visit our website mittin.org you will find online modules, guides, supplemental materials, lesson plans, videos and much more.

As more topics and resources are developed and enhanced, the MITTIN Memo will provide timely updates, along with upcoming presentations, trainings and ways to get involved.

We look forward to sharing with you this exciting work as we strive to strengthen a learner's transition to independence.

Best regards,

Dr. Derek Cooley

MITTIN Committee Chair

What is MITTIN?

MITTIN – MIchigan Transition To INdependence is a dynamic collection of modules and curricular resources which foster the development of independent living skills in the home and community. Designed to support special education transition-related instruction, these resources are free and available to for all parents, schools, educators and learners in Michigan. MITTIN is a partnership of the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE), Michigan Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC), Great Lakes Reality Labs (GLRL) and Public Policy Associates (PPA). These resources can be found at: mittin.org

Benefits of MITTIN

The many benefits of using MITTIN instructional resources include:

• Providing additional opportunities for learners in need of more instructional time;
• Creating instructional scaffolding by connecting learners to community experiences virtually;
• Supporting learners who might not be able to have as much access to the community; and
• Fostering collaboration with families and caregivers by providing access to the modules both at home and in the classroom to support learner success.

What Can Learners Experience?

MITTIN brings real-life experiences to learners who are working to achieve transition-related goals. The resources provide learners the ability to practice independent living skills with varying levels of complexity. Currently there are 11 modules which support the development of safety and independence in the home and community. These skills may be used individually or as proficiency develops, modules can be sequenced to create more complicated, interconnected tasks. 

Safety and Independence at Home

MITTIN currently has seven topics which focus on strengthening skills which promote safety and independence at home. 

• Change a Light Bulb
• Clean Flat Surfaces
• Clean the Bedroom
• Put Away Groceries
• Use a Microwave
• Use an Oven
• Use a Stove



Safety and Independence in the Community

MITTIN currently has four topics which focus on strengthening skills which promote safety and independence in the community.

• Cross the Street 
• Shop for Groceries
• Walk Through a Parking Lot
• Use Self-Checkout

Spotlight on: Clean Flat Surfaces

MITTIN has launched their first one-touch module: Clean Flat Surfaces. To successfully complete it, a learner would follow these steps:

1. Choose a surface to clean.
2. Put away items on the surface (if applicable).
3. Select the appropriate cleaning solution.
4. Spray the messes with the cleaning solution.
5. Wipe away the messes.
6. Use the black light to see the "invisible" germs.
7. Wipe away the invisible germs.
8. Replace the items (if applicable).
9. Repeat with the remaining surfaces.

The Story, Steps, How to Play information, and Supplemental Materials, can be found by clicking on this link: Clean Flat Surfaces Overview.

At the bottom of the overview, there are links to STEAM, Google Play and a downloadable zip drive.

You can also view the Clean Flat Surfaces Trailer, which demonstrates a learner using the module, by clicking on the video link below.

MITTIN: Clean Flat Surfaces Trailer

Upcoming Engagements & Events

MITTIN is presenting, facilitating and/or hosting booths:

February 21-23, 2023

@ Michigan Transition Services Association Conference

Lansing Center (333 E. Michigan Avenue Lansing, Michigan)

February 24, 2023

@ Region 4 Assisted Technology PLAYDATE

Washtenaw ISD (Ann Arbor, Michigan)

February 28, 2023

@ Region 2 & 4 + Transition Coordinators Meeting

Livingston ESA

and

March 2-3, 2023

@ Michigan Council for Exceptional Children Conference

Amway Grand Plaza (187 Monroe Ave., NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan)