By Dr. Amy Butterfield-Tozzo
As a mom of an autistic son and a professional who has spent two decades supporting families, I have seen firsthand how crucial it is to begin secondary transition planning early for individuals on the autism spectrum. The transition to adulthood brings significant challenges for young people with autism, especially when it comes to employment. While many parents hope their child will one day find a fulfilling job, studies indicate that only a small percentage of autistic adults secure paid employment. The key to shifting these outcomes lies in early, intentional preparation that builds skills, confidence, and self-advocacy in young individuals.
Starting early makes a difference. Research from Drexel University reveals that only 14 percent of adults with autism had paid employment, a number that speaks volumes about the barriers these individuals face. As a mother, this statistic feels daunting, and as a professional, it underscores the urgency of addressing the systemic gaps in support and resources. My experience has shown me that meaningful change is possible but requires starting transition planning well before high school graduation.
What is the “Services Cliff”?
One of the most significant challenges autistic individuals face after high school is the “services cliff.” A sudden loss of support as they leave the structured environment of school. Paul Shattuck, an associate professor at Drexel University’s School of Public Health, describes this as a cut-off from the vital services students have received throughout their education. Federal law mandates transition planning for students with special needs, but the reality is that only 58 percent of students with autism have a plan in place by age 14. This lack of preparation has lasting consequences, as my family and countless others can attest. When transition planning starts late or lacks depth, the outcomes can be far from what parents hope for.
Early Transition Planning Matters
For our children to become successful adults, they need time to build skills across various domains: social, vocational, life skills, and self-advocacy. By beginning this process in early adolescence, parents, caregivers, and educators can create a foundation that young people with autism can build on throughout high school and beyond. For example, early job shadowing, volunteering, and mentorship opportunities can demystify the workplace and teach essential skills like task management, timekeeping, and social etiquette in professional settings.
In my work with families, I have encouraged parents to collaborate with schools and advocate for a personalized approach to transition planning. This can include vocational training, life skills coaching, and community-based work experiences that provide realistic environments for skill development. Each child’s transition plan should be as unique as they are, with goals that reflect their strengths, challenges, and aspirations.
The Power of a Support Network
As a mom, I understand the drive to protect my child and ensure every step is carefully planned and supported. But I have also seen that success requires a team. Parents, educators, therapists, and community partners all play a role in helping young people with autism transition successfully. It’s also essential to involve the individual in these conversations as early as possible, fostering self-awareness and confidence.
While some school districts provide robust transition services, the unfortunate reality is that many do not. Parents often bear the responsibility of piecing together resources, a challenging task for any family. This is why having a network of support, from local autism groups to professional networks, can make a significant difference. As a professional, I encourage parents to connect with local businesses, nonprofits, and agencies that may offer job training programs or internship opportunities for young adults on the spectrum. Pick up that phone and connect with people! My son has personalized postcards featuring photos of him practicing different skills in his chosen field. He sends these postcards to people who have gone above and beyond to support him. This practice helps him build connections, expand his network, and advocate for himself.
Addressing Employment Gaps
Even with support, employment remains a significant barrier for autistic adults. Employers often overlook or misunderstand the talents that individuals on the spectrum bring to the workforce. Yet companies like Microsoft, SAP, and Ernst and Young lead by example, recognizing the potential of neurodiverse talent. By creating hiring practices that are sensitive to the needs of individuals with autism, these companies have shown that autistic employees often excel in roles requiring attention to detail, consistency, and creative problem-solving.
The benefits of employing people with autism are well-documented. They bring exceptional focus, accuracy, and work ethic to their jobs. Autistic employees often thrive in roles requiring attention to detail and are less distracted by social interactions. This strength makes them ideal for many technical or data-focused jobs. For employers considering neurodiverse hiring, this is a valuable reminder that inclusive practices can lead to innovative, productive workplaces. As a mother, I want more companies to embrace this model, and as a professional, I know it requires advocacy, education, and a commitment to accessibility from leadership down.
Making a Difference Now
The need for early transition planning and a more inclusive workforce is clear, but what can parents and caregivers do today? Start by engaging with your child’s school to develop a transition plan as early as possible, ideally by age 14. Seek opportunities in your community that offer work experience, and advocate for your child in every setting. Reach out to companies that champion neurodiversity and share the success stories of autistic employees with local businesses to help break down stereotypes. Transition planning is a journey that demands patience, creativity, and resilience from everyone involved. It may be challenging at times, but it’s also a deeply rewarding process that can unlock your child’s potential to lead a fulfilling life. Every child deserves a future where they can contribute meaningfully to society, and as parents, we have the power to start building that future now. Let’s work together to bridge the gap from school to work, making it a reality for the next generation of autistic adults.
Part 2: Starting Secondary Transition Early for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum: Exploring Job Options and Building a Path to Employment