School
In Washington State a person with a developmental disability can go to school with his or her peers (usually around age 5) and remain in school until age 21. Going to school is an enormous benefit for children with developmental disabilities, one which The Arc worked hard to achieve. The school provides transportation for your child when necessary.
Children with developmental disabilities are also required to have an Individual Education Plan (IEP), outlining a program of education that suits your child's needs and stretches his or her abilities. An IEP should address things like what kind of therapy the school will provide (speech, physical, etc.) and how often, academic or physical goals to be met during the school year, and how the school will include your child within the general student body. IEP's are complex and can be controversial. With school districts' budgets stretched to the limit, many schools have limited resources. Try to work positively with your district to see that your child has a meaningful educational experience.
The Arc of Spokane's Parent to Parent program frequently offers workshops on IEPs for parents. For more information contact Helen Black at (509) 328-6326 or hblack@arc-spokane.org.
Adolescence
People with developmental disabilities experience the same physical and emotional changes that everyone does at adolescence. Don't be afraid to talk about them. Educating your child about his or her body and how its changing is the best remedy for this emotionally tumultous period. Expect crushes and 
questions about sexuality. While it may be tempting to ignore these topics rather than open a Pandora's box of questions, remember that, as a person with a developmental disability, your son or daughter is uniquely vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Failing to establish behavioral guidelines may open the door to a profoundly hurtful experience. Help them understand what kind of touching is okay and what kind isn't, and teach them how to respond when someone breaks a rule.
The Arc of Spokane's Partnership program educates adolescents with developmental disabilities, parents, educators and caregivers about the dangers of sexual exploitation and ways to prevent it. To participate, contact Theresa Fears at (509) 328-6326 or tfears@arc-spokane.org. To learn more about The Partnership program, click here.
Transition
Transition is the change that takes place between adolescence and adulthood for people with developmental disabilities. While they're in school, young adults enjoy a full day of activities that keep them engaged and associating with friends. But when school is no longer an option, people often struggle to adjust. Without meaningful activities to help them grow, people risk falling into a cycle of isolation, loneliness and depression. A successful transition is unique for each person but may involve a job, educational opportunities, recreational activities and a safe, reliable way to get from place to place. Some school districts offer programs that help graduating students learn practical living skills like how to interview for a job, ride the bus, cook a meal, clean an apartment or sign up for a recreational activity. But programs alone can't ensure a successful transition. Parents must envision a future for their son or daughter that embraces all of the opportunities for growth that may be available to them. Contact your school district's Special Education administrator for information about transition programs that may be available to your son or daughter.
The Arc of Spokane's Transition Action Team has been working since 2008 help improve transition in our community for young adults with developmental disabilities. To learn more about this project, contact Gregg Osborne at (509) 328-6326 or pblowers@arc-spokane.org.
(continue to Adulthood)
