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.

Transition Planning: The Basics (PDF; 54MB)
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 1-6 of the Indicator 13 requirements of the California Annual Performance Report (APR) .

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 Skills

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

Assessment

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

The Transition Health Care Checklist: Preparing for Life as an Adult (PDF)
A resource to help youth and young adults with special health care needs and disabilities make a successful transition to adult living that includes their education, health and community living.

Transition Health Care Checklist: Transition to Adult Living (PDF, 10MB)
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.

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

Disability Benefits
Disability Benefits 101 gives you tools and information on health coverage, benefits, and employment. Users can plan ahead and learn how work and benefits go together.

CalABLE
CalABLE is a savings and investment plan offered by the state of California to individuals with disabilities

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