Parents of teenagers with special needs: Prep for college NOW…..3 tips

Inclusive College Options after High School start planning NOW!

Unfortunately, in most instances, college advisors are not well-versed in all the programs available for young adults with special needs, leaving many parents unaware and feeling as though college may be impossible. However, that is not necessarily the case. Today, there is a wealth of online resources that can open a whole new world for your child. We are only going to review a few of them today, the rest you can find online by visiting us online at parentingspecialneeds.org.

First Step
The first step may not sound important, but it is. While your student is still in high school, plan to take some college campus trips. This way, they can get acquainted with what college looks like and feels like. This gives you both an opportunity to meet the guidance counselors and college advisers to talk about any special accommodations your student might require.

You might be surprised to know that there are 260 types of programs in the United States offering some kind of college experience for students with intellectual disabilities. You can visit Thinkcollege.net to learn more about specific programs for students with intellectual disabilities.

The second step to picking the right college for your student is understanding the general admissions requirements for each college. Things such as documentation of intellectual disability, your child’s self-determination, the student’s desire to work after the program, safety skills at a basic level, ability to use a cell phone, and much more.

Third Step

Lastly, and I’m sure many parents take this into consideration, is tuition. Some options might include the use of Medicaid funded services, seeing what the financial aid offices might offer, and the different grants or scholarships available. Be sure to check out the article for more information, how to vet a college program, and the # 1 skill your student will need for college.

https://www.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/college-programs-closer-than-you-think/

https://www.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/job-skills-high-school-education-help/

https://www.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/parenting-your-young-adult-first-employment-experiences/

Helpful Articles

• Planning for Your Special Child’s Future: It’s Never “Too Early” to Start!
• What Do I Do with My Child Once They Graduate High School?
• What to Do After High School?
• Educational Options After High School for Students with Special Needs
• College Programs: Closer Than You Think
• College Bound: A Journey to Independence
• Helping Your Child Be An Independent College Student
• Independence and Self-Advocacy
• Maneuvering Your Meal Plan While In College
• Raising a Successful College Graduate

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