Making a plan for leaving school

As autistic individuals approach adulthood, parents and carers often find themselves faced with a whole host of questions.

What does the future hold for these young individuals? What educational and employment avenues are available? How will they achieve independence? The transition into adulthood is filled with potential challenges and opportunities for growth and development. Planning early and effectively can significantly ease this transition, empowering autistic young adults to thrive in their future endeavours.

Understanding the service cliff

The "service cliff" refers to the sudden reduction in support and services that individuals with autism often experience when transitioning from childhood to adulthood. In Australia, children with autism typically receive extensive support through early intervention programs, school-based services, and healthcare. However, as they age out of these programs, usually around 18-21 years old, they encounter significant gaps in education, employment, healthcare, and social services. This sudden drop in support can create substantial challenges for autistic adults striving for independence and integration into the community. Key areas impacted include:

• Education: Transitioning from school to post-school education or the workforce often means losing access to structured support systems. Tertiary education institutions may not offer the same level of support, and the move to independent living or employment can be challenging.
• Employment: Autistic adults may find it difficult to secure and maintain employment due to a lack of workplace accommodations and support. Employment support services are often limited or inaccessible.
• Healthcare: The transition from paediatric to adult healthcare systems can be difficult, with adult services not always equipped to address the specific needs of autistic individuals. The continuity of care can be disrupted, leading to gaps in necessary treatments and support.
• Social supports: Access to social and community support services can be limited for adults with autism. Services like housing support, social skills training, and community integration programs may not be as readily available.

Planning the transition from school to post-school life for autistic individuals can be challenging, but with some proactive and strategic planning, it can be made much smoother. There's plenty out there, whether it's jumping into the workforce, starting their own business, continuing further studies, or getting involved in community activities. The trick is to understand what’s available and match these opportunities to each individual's unique talents and interests. 

Here are some steps parents and carers can take to prepare for this important transition:

• ‍Start early: It's best to start planning a few years before the transition, ideally around ages 14-16, so there's plenty of time to do your research and get things in order.‍
• Create a transition plan: Work with the school and other professionals to develop a detailed transition plan that highlights your child's strengths, interests, and goals and outline the steps needed to achieve them.‍
• Use school resources: Make the most of resources like Individualised Education Programmes (IEPs), career and technical education programmes, and work-based learning opportunities.‍
• Engage with the NDIS: Ensure your child's NDIS plan is up-to-date and includes the necessary supports. Work with an NDIS support coordinator and make use of capacity-building supports.‍
• Explore post-school options: Look into post-school education, employment services, and community programmes that offer support and opportunities for autistic individuals.‍
• Encourage independence: Help your child develop daily living, self-advocacy, and social skills to promote independence.‍
• Build a support network: Establish a support network that includes family, friends, healthcare professionals, and peer support groups.‍
• Plan for health and wellbeing: Ensure healthcare continuity, address mental health needs, and promote a healthy lifestyle.‍
• Legal and financial planning: Prepare for the legal and financial aspects of adulthood, including guardianship, disability benefits, and budgeting.

The importance of listening

Listening is crucial when it comes to helping autistic individuals transition into adulthood. It’s all about getting what they want from life, understanding their hopes, dreams, and even the small day-to-day preferences.

Listening means more than just hearing words; it's about fully grasping someone’s thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. This involves giving them plenty of chances to express themselves, whether that’s through chatting, using assistive technologies, or other comfortable communication methods for them.

By tuning in properly, families and support teams can tailor transition plans that genuinely reflect what each individual imagines for their own future—independence, work, or social connections. This personal touch ensures that the strategies aren’t just theoretical but are genuinely rooted in what autistic adults want and need.

What’s more, when autistic adults feel heard and understood, it boosts their trust and confidence. This encourages them to take an active role in shaping their lives, making the move to adulthood something they actively direct and influence according to their own wishes. In this way, listening isn’t just helpful - it’s a powerful way to empower them and a vital part of supporting their journey to a fulfilling adult life.