Transitions: Ages and Stages

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)

As you navigating the journey of your child as they transition from Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP) to life after high school you’ll find tips and ideas to help you along the way. These resources are designed to support families, professionals and students themselves through each critical phase of educational development and planning. Here, you’ll find dedicated section on transitioning from IFSP to preschool and information about assessments, IEP and how to help your child make this transition as smooth as possible. As your child moves from preschool to elementary school discover articles to support this stage.

We dive into the steps between elementary to middle school, information about classes, growing up and new experiences. Finally, we share how to prepare your child for life after school. A keen focus on preparing for independent living, job skills and supports, and exploring future education opportunities. Each section is tailored to provide you with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and advocate for the best possible outcomes for students transitioning at every educational milestone.

A teen smiling holding their cane as they are waiting for the bus.

Back to School Checklist for Your Child with a Visual Impairment

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)As teachers and staff prepare their rooms for another year, there are many steps you and your child’s IEP team can take to ensure a successful school year. Beyond shopping for supplies and choosing the perfect first-day-of-school outfit, consider these tips and ideas to discuss with your child’s […]

A preschool room with flower art on the wall and a Perkin's Braille Writer on a desk.

From Early Intervention to Preschool

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Planning to transition out of IFSP into preschool services can begin as early as two years and three months. This transition time allows for assessments and meetings to set your child and the education team up for success at day one.

Two preschoolers sitting at a table, smiling.

Preschool to Elementary

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Transitioning from preschool to kindergarten is a big step. Learning how to prepare your child for these changes and what you can do with your educational team will support a seamless move to the next step in their education journey.

A student working on an iPad with his teacher sitting next to him.

Elementary to Middle School

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Moving from elementary to middle school represents increased independence for your child. Your child’s educational team, including new team members, can work together to support your child’s confidence and comfort with the new school.

A group of high school students receiving awards.

Middle School to Beyond

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Preparing for life post-graduation starts early. Transition meetings begin at age 14 where planning for employment, education or training, and independent living begins.

10 Resources for Transitioning from High School to College or Work

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)How are you and feeling about your upcoming transition from high school? Can college or a career “not come soon enough” or hoping time will slow down because you appreciate the support of home life and you do not want to say goodbye to your friends? Maybe you […]

Ally, with light blond hair and teal eyeglasses, clutches her left arm with her right hand

First Day Jitters: Four Stories of Transition (Elementary, Middle, High, College)

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)It can certainly feel daunting when your child or teen who is blind or low vision is transitioning to their next season of education (elementary, middle, high school, or college)! Much like the popular children’s book series First Day Jitters, you and your maturing child may have jitters—and […]

Photo of a young man looking at a computer screen with another individual in the background doing the same.

Navigating Vocational Rehabilitation Services as a High School Student Who Is Blind or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)There are first steps to take when spreading your wings, including knowing what it takes to network. This post will explore the wealth of transition resources available at your local Vocational Rehabilitation Services office. State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services aims to help people with significant disabilities acquire the skills […]

Everyday Job Opportunities in Your Community

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Youth who are blind or low vision begin to work on their transition individualized education plan (IEP) by their 16th birthday. The transition IEP plan has three distinct goals: postsecondary/education, employment, and independent living. Learn more about transition by checking out Transition from High School to Adult Life […]