There are many activities as a teenager that you can do at home or in your community to help with the transition out of school and into community. Autism Ontario has prepared a document with a few ideas to consider throughout your high school years.
All posts by Mackenzie Braithwaite
Launch into Life! QuickStart Planning Tool
The Launch into Life! QuickStart Planning Tool is a new online resource created to assist individuals on the autism spectrum in creating a personalized plan for success as they transition to adulthood. It’s free and easy to use!
This QuickStart Tool was created for adolescents and young adults who are interested in creating a personalized plan for their future. It will help you understand where you are now, what you want your adult life to look like, and what you need to do next to achieve your goals.
Journey to Adulthood: A Checklist of Key Activities
Autism Ontario has created a checklist of key activities to guide you in your journey to adulthood.
Under 14
- Access 2 Card
- Canada Disability Tax Credit (CDTC)*
- Ontario Health Card
- Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)*
- Henson Trust (also called discretionary trust)
Age 14
- Update Psychological Assessment for DSO application*
- Ensure transition skills are included in school’s IEP
Age 15
- Inventory programs and services in the area for post secondary life
- Inventory housing / residential options
Age 16
- Apply to Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)*
- Open a bank account (account in youth’s name)
- Apply for an Ontario ID Card
- Locate adult health care and service providers. Make referrals if necessary.
- Apply for Ontario Works (OW) if applicable
Age 17
- Apply for Ontario Disability Support Plan (ODSP) six (6) months prior to 18th birthday
- Consider legal concerns including guardianship and/or Power of Attorney*
- Confirm appointment with DSO to complete their application process six (6) months prior to 18th birthday.*
- Complete applications for adult services, programs, and supports
Age 18
- Establish guardianship or sign Power of Attorney documents *
- DSO, Passport, and ODSP funds and supports are available at age 18*
- Check with DSO to complete Passport Funding paperwork
- Sign documents allowing consent to share information as needed
- Apply for GST / HST credit on income tax
Over 18
- Continue with secondary education till age of 21
- Attend post secondary education (college, university)
- Participate in community events, programs, and/or activities (with or without 1:1 support)
- Employment (part time or full time)
- Apprenticeships
- Volunteer
* Item has eligibility criteria and/or may not be relevant for each individual
IMPORTANT: Ages provided are a guideline. With the exception of activities with a minimum age requirement, activities can be completed at any age.
Passport Program: What is the maximum annual reimbursement amount?
CHEO School Support Services
CHEO understands that attending school can be a challenge for children of all ages on the autism spectrum. CHEO’s School Support Services offer a range of services to help remove barriers to success in school. Their goal is to help children and youth with ASD overcome school-related obstacles and feel confident going to school. They offer the following:
- School Support Consultations
- Growing Together Workshops
Learn more:
https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/clinics-services-programs/school-support-services.aspx
Sleep and Autism
Sleep-related issues are problematic for anyone who suffers from them. They run the gamut from short-term trouble falling asleep to full-blown sleep disorders that persist for years. Sleep problems can be particularly troublesome for people with autism spectrum disorder, also known as ASD.
