Transition to Adult Services: Support for Ongoing Parent Participation

Abstract

In this article we discuss five strategies that special educators can use to support parents and young adults with disabilities in making a successful transition into adulthood. These strategies recognize sociohistorical context, the impact of stressors on parents, and the burnout experienced by some parents of young adults with disabilities. These five strategies include (a) encouraging early expectations for community life, (b) assisting parents in recognizing the importance of their (parent) contributions, (c) supporting parents in honoring the choices of the son or daughter, (d) increasing the role of social support networks, and (e) addressing parent concerns regarding future employment. The purpose of this article is to stimulate future research and development of strategies for support of families with young adults making the transition to adulthood.