Autism & The Transition to Post Secondary Education

My name is Payton Grandquest and I am a graduate student at the University of North Florida with a focus in Applied Behavior Analysis. Currently I am working as a registered behavior technician and recently became QASP ( Qualified Autism Services Practitioner) certified. I'm 23 years old and am very excited to pursue my goal of becoming a board certified behavioral analyst. Autism interests me and I really enjoy my job right now working with the younger ASD population. I hope one day I can make as big of an impact on them as they have made on me. Enjoy my blog💜

I've mentioned previously in this blog my love for Autism Speaks! Well I fell in love all over again when I came across an article of theirs entitled: Post-Secondary Educational Opportunities. Parents, students, teachers, any one involved in the IEP process should read through this file. It could be especially useful to a parent learning information about how college is different than high school and the different types of post-secondary ed. that are offered. The author even addresses common issues encountered during the transition, key skills students need, and tips on self advocacy. This is my favorite article to date its truly very helpful and easy to understand for all. To read more follow the link below: https://www.autismspeaks.org/sites/default/files/documents/transition/post_secondary_education.pdf A study was conducted by Autism now which, "focuses on three articles that investigate successful transition planning and issues for college attendance for young adu...

On my search for state and local agencies who aid in transition for those with developmental disabilities I came across the Florida Developmental Disabilities Counsel. The council began in 1971 with the original goal to aid in individual planing as well as family centered planning in transition services. However, since has expanded to the, " development and administration of services for people with developmental disabilities by planning and funding research, innovations, and programs designed to improve the quality of their lives". To further their cause the council participates  as an advocate  at many functions in response to legislation, policies , and programs that may aid those with disabilities. They are striving to be a voice for those who may not be able to do so themselves.  To join the cause or to learn more about the resources  they offer see the information listed below.  124 Marriott Drive, Suite 203, Tallahassee, Florida 32301 Phone: 850-488-41...

All of the below resources were found in a file created by Autism Speaks: The file contains information on transition services specific to the state of FL starting at age 14. I urge anyone in need of information on the topic of transition to utilize this source. It starts off by giving you a timeline from beginning to end of an appropriate transition to postsecondary education by age. They cover topics such as starting the process, education, guardianship/conservatorship, vocational rehab, social security, and even housing. I cant say enough good things about Autism Speaks, they have truly made a world of difference for those with Autism Spectrum disorder. The link to this particular file is listed here.  https://www.autismspeaks.org/sites/default/files/florida.pdf Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services Florida Department of Education  325 W. Gaines Street, Suite 614 Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400  (850) 245-0475 www.fldo...

This video is a little longer than your average Youtube clip but don't let this detour you. Its full of useful information for college faculty who may have students with ASD or other related learning disabilities in their classroom. The video explores Pace Universities Oasis program and different strategies that they use to help their students succeed. As well as things to be aware of if you do in fact have a student in your class who receives accommodations. Enjoy!

"AutisMate provides a  progressive  approach that helps the individual transition  from one developmental stage to the next."- Autism Speaks The AutisMate is an ipad app designed for users of any age with Autism. The app's main focus is to combine communication and life skills learning that is completely customizable to its users. " The technology enables the user to not only  personalize  the content, but also apply this content to relevant skills and life experiences they need to learn." An app like this could be very useful to a student transitioning  to postsecondary education. Once you graduate from high school your IEP is no longer in effect and you will receive a new team to aid you through postsecondary education. Customizing the Autismate to include necessary life skills on how to adapt to the  transitioning process could be very helpful. The app also hones in on s ocial skills, b ehavioral Intervention, c ommunication, and f...