Age-specific activities that support successful transition to adulthood for children with disabilities

Twenty-two activities that support transition to adulthood previously published by Blomquist et al. 1998) were explored in a focus group with parents of successful young adults with disabilities. Parents rated these activities on a 5-point Likert scale, and comments were gathered about the activities parents felt were essential for transition to adulthood. Parents rated the activities high with highest agreement being: "Do not do for them what they can do for themselves," "Assign appropriate household chores," and "Help children interact with others in varied settings." The lowest agreement ratings involved issues about school to work transitions, vocational programs within schools, and strategies assuring continuity of care with adult health care providers. Parents offered insights into the daily activities in school, home, and community that support transition to adulthood. Through review and understanding of these transition activities, health care professionals gain insight into the activities fostering a child's independence throughout their development.