Greetings!
For the past few weeks I have been consumed with calling possible speakers and creating my "Swan Song" with this series on Transition. A follow up to Autism 101 And Autism 102 The Next Steps, this eight part series is for parents of Transition Aged children. Sorry for the late notice, trying to get 9 people with openings on their calendars fitting into 4 weeks of classes is a bit like herding cats.
We will begin next Monday by introducing you to the tools used in Charting the Life Course. All of our staff were trained as Ambassadors last fall. This is an exciting way to think about goals and supports and how to achieve dreams. The Department of Developmental Services is adopting this tool for planning for the future of the people they serve, our sons and daughters. It can be applied to one goal or skill or to a whole life. You'll have a chance to use the tools as you think about the future.
At the age of 14 all students on IEP's must have an Individual Transition Plan. This document is often treated as an appendix , when it should be the driving force behind the IEP. Gayle Greene M.Ed will join us for a session on making the ITP work for your child.
Our Session on post Education options will split. One track will be for parents of kids who will utilize traditional DDS services and they'll hear from Russ Leete, HMEA's VP of Employment Services. He'll explain vocational testing and how job matches are made for individuals. What your child achieves in school can make a difference in their future. If your child is on track to graduate with an MCAS diploma and be served by DDS as an ASD only adult, Julie LeBlanc from Assumption College will talk about preparing for college.
We are thrilled to have Fred Misilo Esq. join us for a discussion of Guardianship and Alternatives to guardianship. A Nationally known expert, Fred will explain the process and help you understand what level of guardianship makes sense for your child. There are alternatives to guardianship that may be a better choice for many on the spectrum.
Cathy Boyle, THE Guru for all things housing, will present "Thinking About Housing". We know, your child is only 14 or 18 and still needs to be in your home, but it takes time, a long time, to qualify for and get a section 8 housing voucher. Where will you get the money needed to provide a life long home for your child? You need to start now, planning for the future instead of worrying about it! Cathy will point the way.
Amy Weinstock, Director of The Autism Insurance Resource Center, will come and discuss Health Care Coverages for Adults. THE Expert on health insurance and autism, Amy will help you understand the options available for your adult child and how to avoid making the wrong decisions for your child as they enter adulthood.
Dianne Crossley , our Adult Services Specialist will end the series with a discussion on Public Supports for Adults, there is so much to learn SSI, DAC, MassHealth, Medicare and DDS eligibility, it's all so confusing but Dianne will make it clear for you.
It's my hope that this series will fill a need for many of you. Transition to adulthood is so difficult because unlike transition to high school and other milestone transitions that you've shared with other parents, this one comes at your son or daughter's birthday and so you often feel alone and frightened. Don't be, we're going to give you the tools to do this like a pro! Click below to register!
