Independent Living for Teens
Transition from High School to "The Real World"

Although no longer a separately funded program of CILNM, transition services are still offered by the Center.

Transition services are defined by the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) as "a coordinated set of activities for a student ... which promotes movement from school to post school activities." In simpler terms, transition is a bridge between the security of school and the opportunities and risks of adult life.

Who is served?

Young adults with various disabilities who are interested in learning independent living skills so they may achieve an independent lifestyle. Participants are usually between the ages of 14 and 22.

Parents of youth with disabilities are also offered educational opportunities through workshops and meetings.

Transition training areas are: Socialization, Health Care, Housing, Homemaking, Transportation, Financial Management, Cooking, Sexuality, Community Resources, Educational Opportunities, Employment Opportunities, Recreation/Leisure, Advocacy & Disability Awareness.

CILNM Provides:

• Individual Independent Living Skills Training
• Group Skills Training
• Student Workshops
• Parent Advocacy Training

Program Goals:

To Assist young adults with disabilities to prepare for the transition from school to independent living.

To insure that young adults with disabilities are aware of available resources and learn appropriate living skills (including self-advocacy and leisure/recreational activities) to achieve independence within the community.

To provide independent living skills training through individual and group sessions in the classroom, in the community, at CILNM, and occasionally at the young adult's home.

To serve as a resource to school districts.

LINKS:

Minnesota's Special Education Complaint Procedure

PACER Center - Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 1997

Driver's License Information

Preventing Antisocial Behavior in Disabled and At-Risk Students 

U.S. Department of Education

U.S. Legislation and Laws

   The National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities

   Serving Families with disabilities since 1982