Yay! I'm so glad you're putting this important info out there. I live in California and I have two autistic sons, ages 21 & 24. The community colleges have been amazing, not only for my kids but for students I've referred. One mom was initially thinking her daughter would finish high school with a certificate. After three years of tutoring with me, she graduated with honors and went on to community college.
My younger son has been attending the local community college since 2020. He didn't like the online classes during COVID, and changed his mind about his major. In fall of 2024, he will finally transfer to UC, with most of the work done except for the special classes for his major. He wanted to go straight to four-year, but he gets overwhelmed by too many assignments. This way, we saved a LOT of money while he figured things out.
Also want to second your recommendation for Transition Fairs and resource fairs in general. We learned so much about what was available to us. Our older son is more PDA, so he didn't stay in college (they had great offerings and accessibility options for him, but it just wasn't his thing). However, we were able to find out about funding and housing options for him. He has his own apartment, free public transportation, food stamps, etc.
We parents need to stick together and help others learn. Hopefully they will have an easier time than we did.
Laura, you are a Super Woman at uncovering such important info for all of us parents/families who are trying to do the best we can for our family members who need our help and guidance every day. Thanks for all you do!
Yay! I'm so glad you're putting this important info out there. I live in California and I have two autistic sons, ages 21 & 24. The community colleges have been amazing, not only for my kids but for students I've referred. One mom was initially thinking her daughter would finish high school with a certificate. After three years of tutoring with me, she graduated with honors and went on to community college.
My younger son has been attending the local community college since 2020. He didn't like the online classes during COVID, and changed his mind about his major. In fall of 2024, he will finally transfer to UC, with most of the work done except for the special classes for his major. He wanted to go straight to four-year, but he gets overwhelmed by too many assignments. This way, we saved a LOT of money while he figured things out.
Also want to second your recommendation for Transition Fairs and resource fairs in general. We learned so much about what was available to us. Our older son is more PDA, so he didn't stay in college (they had great offerings and accessibility options for him, but it just wasn't his thing). However, we were able to find out about funding and housing options for him. He has his own apartment, free public transportation, food stamps, etc.
We parents need to stick together and help others learn. Hopefully they will have an easier time than we did.
Laura, you are a Super Woman at uncovering such important info for all of us parents/families who are trying to do the best we can for our family members who need our help and guidance every day. Thanks for all you do!