Support fulfilling, self-determined adult lives for young people who use AAC

To make a smooth transition to a fulfilling, self-determined adult life, young people who use AAC need effective services that meet their individual needs and make the most of advances in technology. Professionals will provide these critical supports with the help of this book, the first complete guide to supporting the journey to adulthood for people who use AAC.

Combining the best research-based practices from diverse fields—including special education, vocational rehabilitation, and communication disorders—this essential resource covers every aspect of transition planning for young adults with a wide range of disabilities. Professionals will get the knowledge and strategies they need to help young people who use AAC

• strengthen literacy skills, so they can access educational, vocational, and social opportunities
  
  
• succeed in secondary school, participating fully in both academic and social arenas
  
  
• make the transition to postsecondary education, advocating for the accommodations and supports they need to access the core curriculum
  
  
• achieve self-determination by developing skills such as self-knowledge, decision making, and communication
  
  
• secure employment and enjoy a positive workplace experience
  
  
• increase autonomy and build friendships through community recreation and leisure activities
  
  
• communicate effectively with personal assistants to ensure that their support needs are met
  
  
• navigate the complex move from pediatric to adult medical and health services

Throughout the book, guidance from top experts is woven together with the personal stories of young adults who use AAC, shedding light on the challenges of transition and the research-based strategies that lead to positive outcomes. A much-needed resource for transition and employment specialists, vocational rehabilitation specialists, and special education teachers, this groundbreaking book will help professionals prepare young people who use AAC for successful adult lives—in school, at work, and in the community.

About the Author/Editor(s)
About the Contributors
Foreword
Bruce R. Baker
Preface
Acknowledgments

I. Foundations for Successful Transitions

1. Introduction: Key Components of Successful Transitions
David McNaughton, David Beukelman, Nancy Draper, & John Draper

2. Self-Determination and Young Adults Who Use AAC
Mike Wehmeyer, David McNaughton, Tracy Rackensperger, & Sandra Wright

II. Education and Transition Programs

3. Literacy Instruction For Transition Age Youth Who Use AAC: What Is And What Could Be
Beth E. Foley & Julie A. Wolter

4. Making School Matter: Supporting Meaningful Secondary Experiences for Adolescents Who Use AAC
Erik W. Carter & John Draper

III. Employment and Volunteer Programs

5. Post-High School Transition Supports and Programs in Postsecondary Education for Young Adults Using AAC
Christy A. Horn & Randy Joe May

6. Employment and Individuals Who Use AAC
David McNaughton & Tracy Rackensperger

IV. Relationships and Social Engagement

7. "Activity Brings Community into Our Lives": Recreation, Leisure, and Community Participation for Individuals Who Use AAC
John Dattilo, Elizabeth Benedek-Wood, & Lateef McLeod

8. Intimate Relationships
Dave Hingsburger

V. Living in Society

9. Preparing Youth Who Use AAC to Communicate with their Personal Assistants
Barbara Collier & Hazel Self

10. Medical and Health Transitions for Young Adults Who Use AAC
Sue Balandin & Annalu Waller

VI. Assessment and Intervention in AAC with Teens and Adults

11. Augmentative and Alternative Communication Considerations During the Transition to Adult Life
LJ Ball, KL Stading, & DV Hazelrigg

References
Index