Independent Living

As students prepare to transition from the K-12 system into adulthood, it is important they acquire the skills to enjoy a quality life. Living skills are essential for all youth, including youth with disabilities.

The National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center (NSTTAC) has identified evidence-based practices in secondary transition planning that lead to positive post-school outcomes. Opportunities to learn independent living skills will lead to a smooth transition.

Secondary Transition Planning: The Basics (PDF; 3MB)
Independent living experiences are referenced on pages 6-7, 18-19, and page 26. These pages also provide information on how to comply with elements 1-4 and 6 of the Indicator 13 requirements of the State Performance Plan (SPP): SPP - 2011 (DOC; 2MB; Posted 02-Jan-2013)

Support for Independent Living

California Department of Rehabilitation
This site provides information and links to resources related to mobility, assistive technology, employment services, and job readiness.

Independent Living Centers of California
Information is also available at CA Department of Rehabilitation. The mission of the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers is to advocate for barrier-free access and equal opportunity for people with disabilities to participate in community life. This site links to information about health care, accessibility, assistive technology and other resources that contribute to living independently.

Independent Living Skills

Essential Skills for All Teens
21st Century Career Connections
Activities to help students meet the demands of a new century and to assist them in assessing and developing essential skills.

Independent Living Checklist (PDF)
National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability.

Assessment

Casey Life Skills
Resources to Inspire Guide is an extensive evaluation of skills that can be used to develop independent living. The Casey Life Skills inventory is free to professionals working with youth.

Life Skills Survey Independent Living Skills Inventory (PDF)
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.

The Transition to Health Care Checklist (PDF)
Wisconsin Community of Practice on Health Care.
This booklet is intended for youth and young adults who are preparing to transition to life as an adult. The purpose of the booklet is to provide a general overview of the knowledge, skills and actions that need to be addressed as part of the fluid process of adolescent transition for youth with special health care needs.

Transition Health Care Checklist Transition to Adult Living (PDF; 9MB)
Department of Health, State of Pennsylvania
A comprehensive transition planning tool that inventories readiness to transition and explores an array of transition issues, including health and wellness factors.

Legal Information for Teens Turning 18

When You Turn 18: A Survival Guide for Teenagers (PDF; 1MB)
California Bar Association.
What every teen needs to know about the law as they become an adult.

Health and Wellness

Office of Disability Employment Policy (PDF)
Healthy Transitions: A Pathway to Employment for Youth with Chronic Health Conditions and Other Disabilities. This policy paper examines strategies to achieve employment for youth with chronic health issues.

Financial Literacy

University of Massachusetts
This site hosts tip sheets on an array of transition topics primarily directed to youth and their families. Tell Your Money What to Do is an example of one of the tip sheets.

The Mint
Financial literacy games, tips and information for students, teachers and parents.

Jumpstart Coalition
Financial literacy resources for youth, families and teachers.

WorkSmart
Tips to help you prepare for and find a new job.