Transition Tools
These tools will help you prepare for the transition to adulthood.
The transition to adulthood is a significant and exciting time in a person’s life. For youth with special healthcare needs and their families, this journey is no less rewarding but requires careful planning and knowledge of valuable resources to assist in the transition. We’re here to provide this support and help you and your family prepare for what lies ahead.
We have developed a set of checklists and materials to help youth and their families learn and practice new skills and gain greater confidence and independence. You can search for these resources by category or region on the right side of this page.
We’ve also compiled some of our most popular checklists and materials into one convenient packet for ease of reference:
If you are interested in receiving a printed copy of the toolkit, please click here.
We are eager to partner with you to make the journey to adulthood as successful as possible.
Healthcare Resources
Transition QuickGuide: Take Charge of Planning and Managing Your Own Health and Career Goals
This checklist provides information and resources about health insurance coverage, self-care, health care transition, decision-making and career planning and management.
Free Resources for People and Families with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
The JDRF (formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) has shared this one-page information sheet that lists available resources for those living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).
When you become an adult, your experience at the doctor’s office and the hospital might be different from what
you are used to. This fact sheet explains some of the changes you might notice.
independence Resources
Together We Prepare - American Sign Language Videos
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission collaborated to create a series of videos presenting vital preparedness messages in American Sign Language. Topics include emergency planning, evacuation and building a kit.
Emergency Preparedness Tips for Those with Access and Functional Needs
A guidebook from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency that provides preparedness tips for people with visual, cognitive or mobility impairments; people who are deaf or hard of hearing; those who utilize service animals or life support systems; and senior citizens.
Guide for Voters with a Disability
USAGov provides this step-by-step guide to help individuals with disabilities prepare for Election Day and know their rights and options.
work Resources
Illinois Transition Consortium
Helps students successfully transition from school to employment by providing contacts, education, and support.
Contact by phone (618) 651-9028 or e-mail swalters@isbe.net.
Illinois Department of Employment Security Youth Program
Provides youth employment security through representation, training programs, and apprenticeship programs for students.
Employment Services - Cornerstone Services
Helping people get and maintain employment in the community through career counseling, job development and job coaching.