Here are some tools to help plan a child’s goals for future independence.

By Karen Kaplan, MS

It is never too early to consider the techniques, strategies, and activities to support your child or student in reaching independence.

Many families are reluctant to nurture independence, but they become panicked when their child has only one or two years left in the public school system.

There are resources for families and schools to use in the Individual Education Plan (IEP), Individual Transition Plan (ITP), or Individual Program Plan (IPP).

These student-focused tools can help students see which skills and resources should be implemented to support a successful adult life.

Circle of Friends

This tool can help identify students who need help building a circle of support, which includes friends who listen, offer advice, or provide support when needed.

After drawing four concentric circles, label them:

• Circle of intimacy: people we cannot live without

• Circle of friendship: good friends not included in the first circle

• Circle of participation: people, organizations, and networks, such as clubs, extracurricular activities, and sports teams

• Circle of exchange: people who provide services such as medical professionals, hairdressers, teachers, mechanics, etc.