Preparing a neurodivergent young person for college is about more than choosing the right-sized sheets and pillowcases for their dorm room. When students transition from high school to college, they are expected to know how to manage their entire educational experience independently.
According to Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders students may suddenly be expected to seek out the type out of support and accommodations they may have relied on in their primary educational experiences, “Autistic students reported that expectations to independently face unfamiliar routines, suddenly increased academic demands, practical issues such as cooking and budgeting, and difficulties in making new friendships contributed to their anxiety and stress while they were preparing to transition to or during their first year.”
Some researchers feel that this developmental period is underexplored due to its importance in the lives of autistic individuals. But the available research is clear. “In addition to age-normative demands faced by all individuals matriculating into college, students with neurodevelopmental disabilities, such as ASD and ADHD, must also learn how to self-advocate for needed services or accommodations during this transition,” according to the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Some higher education institutions offer resources, but they might not be as readily available as those for underage students.
Once students turn 18, they have to approach getting accommodations differently. “This phenomenon, known as the ‘services cliff’, makes the transition to young adulthood especially difficult for this population,” according to Autism Research.
Focusing on how to ensure a child or young adult is meeting their transition-related needs gives them the best chance at academic success.
If you have a neurodivergent child getting ready to transition to college, here are four tactics you can use to help prepare them for what’s ahead:
Table of Contents
Create A Plan
Developing a multipoint transitional plan to take your student from high school to college is key. The plan will look different for every student but should include as much detail as possible. “While plans should be individualized, research suggests that students should be immersed in classes with neurotypical peers, and that programs should be designed to promote and develop strengths, and transition plans should be goal specific,” according to Frontiers in Psychiatry.
Find The Resources Before You Need Them
“Obtaining accommodations can require paperwork, contact with disability offices, and disclosure of diagnoses and accommodations to each new instructor,” according to the Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Unlike in primary school, every educator or administrator your young person comes into contact with might not know what is in their file. They may have to advocate for themselves.
When they decide on a school, you and your teen should become familiar with their neurodivergent resources. A study in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing found “utilizing sources of support” to be a key factor in the academic success of students on the autism spectrum. Many schools have website landing pages presenting the resources available to students. That is a good starting place, but do not assume that is your only option. Student health services might have helpful resources as well. Check out peer groups where students who share experiences similar to your child’s might be listed under clubs or student activities.
Decide On How To Navigate Privacy Restrictions
Parents often want to aid their neurodivergent grown children in the postsecondary environment to ensure success.
When your child is in high school, their education automatically goes through you. In most cases, there is no information that you do not have the right to access. In college, that changes. Federal law prevents academic institutions from forking over data to family members, no matter how close they are.
Work out a plan for helping your child that works within the boundaries of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA).
In some cases, you might have your child opt in to your gaining access to their information. In others, you might need to set a time to discuss how to help your child without crossing privacy parameters.
It is best to do this before orientation.
Use Social Stories To Acknowledge College Traditions
Social stories are a commonly used intervention for small children, but they are helpful for students of all ages.
Many college campuses have unique traditions and events that your neurodivergent young person might not feel comfortable participating in. They might require support when everyone uses a tray to sled down a hill, dancing in a fountain, or dressing alike during a sorority rush period.
Social stories incorporating this information can prepare them for certain times of the year, like homecoming season. It could help them navigate or at least partially prepare for sensory overload.
Set A Timeline For Evaluating Tactics
Sometimes, no matter how well you craft a plan, it is unsuccessful. Set a timeline to evaluate the transition plan you craft with your young person so that you can pivot if your family needs to.
Resources
Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Digital-Mediated Social Stories Support Children on the Autism Spectrum
