Category Archives: Transition

CHEO’s Navigator Program New Virtual Series: Graduation to Adult Care

Health, Services and Programs, Transition

They have heard from families over the years how getting ready to graduate from CHEO to adult care can be scary, and overwhelming. They are really excited to be starting a new group for caregivers with a focus on graduating to adult care. This group will be best suited for families with children in the complex care program who are 14 +.
Send an email to Parent Navigator Lilian at l.kitcher@pqchc.com to register.

📰Turning 18 should be a celebration not a setback for youth with disabilities, report suggests

News, Transition

When Wesley turned 18, instead of celebrating, they felt terrified. After 18 years of being supported by the same healthcare team, everything changed overnight.

“You’re accessing the same general team of professionals. Then with one birthday, one change, almost all of the contacts had to be swapped over to adult care providers,” says Wesley, who is now in their 20s. “All those relationships you’ve built over 18 years are just gone.”

Read the story here

Launch into Life! QuickStart Planning Tool

Transition

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

Transition

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.