“The transition to adulthood can be a challenging time for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for people with autism,” said Mark Roithmayr, president and CEO of Autism Speaks. “Our new transition toolkit is designed to provide families and individuals with the information and resources they need to make the transition to adulthood as smooth as possible.”

The toolkit is divided into four sections:

• Self-Advocacy: This section provides information on how to develop self-advocacy skills, such as how to communicate your needs and wants, how to set goals, and how to advocate for yourself in different settings.
• Independent Living: This section provides information on how to develop independent living skills, such as how to cook, clean, do laundry, and manage money.
• Employment: This section provides information on how to find and keep a job, how to develop job skills, and how to succeed in the workplace.
• Housing: This section provides information on different housing options for people with autism, such as independent living, group homes, and supported living arrangements.

The toolkit also includes a section on resources, which provides a list of organizations and websites that can provide additional information and support.

The transition toolkit is a valuable resource for families and individuals with autism. It provides information and resources to help make the transition to adulthood a smoother and more successful experience.

In addition to the transition toolkit, Autism Speaks offers a variety of other resources and support services for people with autism and their families. These resources include:

• The Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network: This network of over 100 clinics provides comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for autism.
• The Autism Speaks Autism Response Team: This team of trained professionals provides free, confidential support to families affected by autism.
• The Autism Speaks Autism Resource Center: This website provides a wealth of information and resources on autism, including articles, videos, and fact sheets.

Autism Speaks is committed to helping people with autism live full and productive lives. The transition toolkit is just one of the many ways that Autism Speaks works to make a difference in the lives of people with autism and their families.

Here are some additional tips for helping people with autism transition to adulthood:

• Start planning early. Transitioning to adulthood can take several years, so it’s essential to start planning early. Talk to your child’s doctor, therapist, and other professionals.
• Get involved in your child’s education. Make sure your child is getting the support they need in school. This may include special education services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or behavior therapy.
• Help your child develop social skills. Social skills are essential for success in adulthood. Encourage your child to participate in activities that will help them develop social skills, such as sports, clubs, or volunteer work.
• Help your child develop independent living skills. As your child ages, help them learn how to do things for themselves, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing money.
• Talk to your child about their future. Talk to your child about their dreams and goals for the future. Help them develop a plan to achieve their goals.

The transition to adulthood can be a challenging time, but it can also be a time of great opportunity. With planning and support, people with autism can live full and productive lives.

Download the Transition Tool Kit

States (31) with enacted autism insurance reform laws

• Alaska – Enacted June 27, 2012 
• Arizona – Enacted March 21, 2008 
• Arkansas – Enacted March 4, 2011
• California – Enacted Oct. 9, 2011
   
• Colorado – Enacted June 2, 2009
• Connecticut – Enacted June 9, 2009
• Florida – Enacted May 2, 2008
• Iowa – Enacted April 29, 2010
• Illinois – Enacted December 13, 2008
• Indiana – Enacted May 3, 2001
• Kansas – Enacted April 19, 2010
• Kentucky – Enacted April 14, 2010
• Louisiana – Enacted July 2, 2008
• Maine – Enacted April 12, 2010
• Massachusetts – Enacted August 3, 2010
• Michigan– Enacted April 18, 2012
• Missouri – Enacted June 10, 2010
• Montana – Enacted May 5, 2009
• Nevada – Enacted May 29, 2009
• New Hampshire – Enacted July 23, 2010
• New Jersey – Enacted August 13, 2009
• New Mexico – Enacted April 2, 2009
• New York– Enacted Nov. 1, 2011
• Pennsylvania – Enacted July 9, 2008
• Rhode Island– Enacted June 30, 2011
• South Carolina – Enacted June 7, 2007
• Texas – Enacted June 15, 2007; Amended June 19, 2009
• Vermont – Enacted May 27, 2010; Amended May 16, 2012
• Virginia– Enacted May 6, 2011
• West Virginia– Enacted April 1, 2011
• Wisconsin – Enacted October 19, 2009

*** UPDATE (Due to date01/27/22019) ***

Currently, 49 States Require Coverage Of Autism. Click here for the updated list.

It is important to note that the specific details of these laws can vary from state to state, so it is always best to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your plan. Additionally, other states may have enacted similar laws since the knowledge cutoff date for this Assistant.

*** UPDATE (Due to date 29 of April 2023) ***

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