Transition Resources for Lifelong Success: APH FamilyConnect and CareerConnect are Your One Stop Shop
Authors: Richard Rueda, Assistant Director of the APH ConnectCenter and Melisa Matthews, Digital Content Manager of APH Family Connect
Are you a parent, educator, or professional supporting a young person who is blind or has low vision? Navigating different stages of development can bring unique challenges. Thankfully, the APH ConnectCenter, encompassing FamilyConnect, Transition Hub and CareerConnect, is here to be your one-stop shop for resources, answers, and guidance.
General Transition Resources
When your IEP team begins talking about transition goals, you may feel overwhelmed with uncertainty and left with many questions. Many families question “What’s Next,” and it is the role of the team to help support and explore all options for what may be next after high school for your child. One way to be prepared is understanding and learning more about how to collaborate and prepare with the team for the next few years. Learn tips and ideas how to best support your child through these stages:
- Transition from High School to Adult Life for Teenagers Who are Blind or Have Low Vision
- 10 Resources for Transitioning from High School to College or Work
- Navigating Vocational Rehabilitation Services as a High School Student Who is Blind or Low Vision
- Transitioning Students from High School to Adulthood Takes Training and Teamwork
- Transitions for Students Who are Deafblind
- Life After High School: Preparing Your Child with Blindness or Low Vision
First Jobs and Work Experience
Before your child goes to college or is on their career path, they are likely to be interested in a part-time job or work experience. Discovering what you like or don’t like about a job or field helps gauge future decisions your child will make. Exploring a wide range of first jobs will help them explore their interests.
- Sorting, Puzzles and Early Activities Support Successful Futures
- Everyday Job Opportunities in your Community
- Journey to a Successful Work Experience ( 10 lesson plans)
- Seven Pre-Employment Skills for Children with Complex Needs
- What Parents Need to Know About Supported Employment for Individuals with Multiple Disabilities
- Headed to Work as a Teen with Blindness or Low Vision
- A Sweet Job Teaches This High School Student Valuable Skills
From Home to Higher Education: College and Beyond
If your child is seeking further education and ready to explore college life, there are many things you can do to support this next chapter in their journey. To help ensure a smooth transition from home to college life, encourage them to explore college campuses, check out college activities, and talk to students at a college of their interest.
- Transition to College: Program Activity Guide for Students who are Blind or Low Vision
- Activities to Help Prepare for Further Education
- Advocating for Your Rights as a College Student
- Self-Advocacy Tips for Requesting College Accommodations
Exploring the World of Work
From first jobs to exploring career interests and paths, CareerConnect encourages and supports curiosity as your child or student wonders about career and job paths that are possible for blind and low vision individuals.
Contact Us
The APH ConnectCenter is here to support your child’s journey. Reach out to our team by email at [email protected] or call our toll-free line at 800.232.5463.
Together, let’s empower blind and low vision youth to achieve lifelong success!