Transitioning From Childhood to Adulthood with ASD
Transitioning from childhood to adulthood is a monumental shift for every young person, but for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the journey can bring unique challenges and opportunities. In Ontario, parents and caregivers play a vital role in guiding their child through this transition, helping them navigate the complexities of adult life while ensuring they have access to the necessary supports and resources. Whether your child is moving from high school to post-secondary education, entering the workforce, or preparing for independent living, understanding the services and programs available in Ontario is key to ensuring a successful transition.
Key Areas of Focus for the Transition
1.Educational Support and Post-Secondary Options The transition from school to adulthood often begins with post-secondary education or vocational training. Many individuals with ASD thrive in structured environments but may need additional support to succeed in these settings. It's important to explore post-secondary institutions that offer specialized programs, accommodations, and supports for students with disabilities, including autism. Depending on the school you are hoping to attend, it can be valuable to explore on their individual websites the necessary steps to register for accommodations.
Ontario Colleges and Universities offer resources for students with developmental disabilities, and provide accessibility services such as note-taking assistance, extended test-taking times, and guidance counseling. In addition, schools such as Fanshawe College offer post secondary programming designed specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities called Community Integration Through Co-Opperative Education. To learn more about the CICE program at Fanshawe: https://www.fanshawec.ca/programs/cit2-community-integration-through-co-operative-education/next?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=rbm_brand&utm_content=rbm_brand&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAzba9BhBhEiwA7glbaqBdybClq9L4x-ozj2sbR2VSr3ZdhbrDVTqi12HpH2XgSqDFxqIjxRoCpxwQAvD_BwE#overview
2. Workforce Integration Gaining employment is one of the most significant milestones for young adults. Preparing a child with ASD for the workforce involves a combination of job training, skill-building, and creating a support system. In London, Ontario, there are a number of organizations that can provide job coaching, employment readiness training, and access to job placements tailored to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Here are some of the local organizations in London, Ontario offering employment supports:
Community Living London: https://www.cll.on.ca/employment-services
Hutton House: https://www.huttonhouse.com/employmentservices
Leads Employment Services: https://www.leadsservices.com/
ATN: https://www.atn.ca/
3. Living Independently Moving toward independent living is a significant goal for many young adults with ASD. This could mean moving out of the family home, living in supported housing, or managing day-to-day activities independently. Ontario offers various programs to support independent living, through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO), which provides individuals and their families with access to services that assist with housing, life skills training, and more. The DSO is the main resource for:
Housing - this includes Supported Independent Living (SIL), Life Share Programming, and Group Home Living
Community Participation Funding - Passport Funding, Adult Protective Service Worker (APSW), and Case Management
Respite
Applications for the DSO can be started 6 months before an individual’s 18th birthday. To learn more about available options through DSO: https://www.dsontario.ca/funded-services
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is a government program designed to provide financial assistance and support to individuals with disabilities in Ontario. It helps cover living expenses, such as food, housing, and other essential needs. The program aims to provide a basic standard of living and assist individuals in achieving greater independence. Other services that are offered through ODSP that people may not be aware of include:
Health and Dental Benefits (including eye care!)
Medical Supplies Benefits - this often can cover personal care needs such as briefs, wipes, compression socks, diabetic supplies, etc
Employment Start Up Funding- This funding helps support start up costs such as workboots and clothing
Transportation to and from Regular Medical Appointments Funding
ODSP can also be applied to 6 months before an individual’s 18th birthday and started through the ODSP website: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program#:~:text=ODSP%20offers%3A,job%20or%20advance%20your%20career
4. Skills of Independence As individuals with ASD transition into adulthood, developing skills such as cooking, maintaining a household, navigating transportation, and more can be a learning curve. Independent living skills and mental health support are essential components of a successful transition. Many community-based organizations in Ontario offer programs to help individuals learn these skills. InnerWorks has opportunities for your child to develop these skills through our therapeutic coaching program! Therapeutic coaches alongside a therapist can support in developing goals that support skill development. Therapeutic Coaching can be adapted to meet the needs of your family!
Resources Available in Ontario
Several resources are available to assist individuals with ASD and their families in navigating the transition from childhood to adulthood. Here are some of the key programs and services:
Autism Ontario Autism Ontario offers a wealth of resources, including programs, events, and services specifically designed for individuals transitioning to adulthood. Their Transition to Adulthood Program provides workshops and resources for both parents and young adults to help them better understand the available supports and make informed decisions about the future.
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) DSO helps individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism, access government-funded services, including residential support, respite care, and employment services. Their services help individuals find resources that promote independence and assist with life skills development.
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) ODSP provides financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, including those with ASD, to help with living costs, health benefits, and employment support. ODSP helps individuals transition to work and community participation, providing financial support while they gain skills and find suitable employment.
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) A Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a government-sponsored savings plan in Canada designed to help individuals with disabilities save for their future financial needs. The RDSP allows contributions to grow tax-deferred, and the government provides matching grants and bonds based on the beneficiary’s family income. The plan is intended to help individuals with disabilities save for long-term care, living expenses, or other costs. It’s available to Canadian residents who are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
For a full checklist of things to consider:
https://www.autismontario.com/sites/default/files/2023-11/key%20activities%20check%20list_Jane_EN.pdf
The transition from childhood to adulthood can be overwhelming for any family, but with the right resources and support, young adults with ASD in Ontario can thrive in their journey. By connecting with organizations like DSO, and ODSP, and InnerWorks parents can ensure that their child has access to the educational, vocational, housing, and emotional support they need. With careful planning, patience, and the right resources, young adults with ASD can achieve greater independence, fulfillment, and success in their adult lives.
As a parent or caregiver, your ongoing involvement and support are essential in helping your child reach their full potential. The future is full of opportunities, and with the resources available in Ontario, your child can transition confidently into adulthood.
