Preparing for the journey after high school

The transition from high school to adult life for individuals with special needs is a significant step. Learn about the planning process, available resources, and your rights to ensure a successful future for your child.

Your child's future: The journey continues

Many families ask:  "What happens when my child turns 14?"

This is when transition planning officially begins within the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process.

The goal is to prepare your child for post-school activities, including higher education, employment, independent living, and community participation. The journey continues even after high school.

Navigating life after high school

Another common question is, "What happens after high school?" This involves exploring various adult services, vocational rehabilitation, and community support systems to help your child achieve their full potential in adulthood.

Our page on "Transition to Adult Life" provides more detailed information on what to do, what the next steps are, and where your child is going. You'll also find information about resources to support them and your family, and what rights your child has.

Many parents wonder, "Do I lose control over my child once they become adults?" We address these important questions to help you navigate this period with confidence.

Know your rights

If you disagree with the school's decisions, you have rights. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides safeguards for parents, including the right to mediation and due process hearings. Organizations listed below can help you advocate for your child:

Family Resources for Transition to Adult Services

Parent Information Center of NH (PIC NH)

What it is: A statewide organization that helps families understand special education, IEPs, 504 Plans, and their rights.
How they help: Workshops, one-to-one support, phone help, and family-friendly materials (often in multiple languages).
Contact: (603) 224-7005

Planning for Life After High School - Parent Information Center of NH

NH Family Voices

What it is: A family-run organization supporting families of children with special health care needs and disabilities.
How they help: Care coordination, support groups, resource guides, and help navigating systems (school, medical, mental health).
Contact: (603) 271-4525

Preparing youth for transitioning to adulthood - New Hampshire Family Voices

Community Partners

What it is: Community Partners is the Area Agency that supports children and adults with developmental disabilities, including autism.

How they help: Help families apply for adult services, provide case management, connect families to respite, in‑home supports, community programs, and employment services, guide families through the transition from high school to adult life, explain eligibility for developmental services, support families who need help navigating the system. Contact: 603-516-9300                                                  Services – Community Partners

NH Vocational Rehabilitation (NHVR)

What it is: NH Vocational Rehabilitation is a state program that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep a job.

How they help: Job training, career exploration, help with job applications and interviews, support for college or training programs, assistive technology for work, work‑based learning experiences for high school students, and transition planning starting at age 14

Contact: (603) 271‑3494

Vocational Rehabilitation Services | Department of Education

Disability Rights Center – New Hampshire (DRC‑NH)

What it is: DRC‑NH is the state’s protection and advocacy agency. They protect the rights of people with disabilities and help families understand the law.

How they help: Explain special education rights, help families understand transition rights, provide guidance on IEPs, 504 Plans, and adult services, offer resources for families who face discrimination, support families who need help navigating the system, and provide information in family‑friendly language.

Contact: (603) 228‑0432

Education and Transition Planning - DRCNH

211 NH

What it is: A free phone and online service that connects families to local resources.
How they help: Housing, food, mental health, disability services, legal help, and more.
Contact: Dial 211, Website: 211nh.org

"The transition resources provided were invaluable. They helped us understand each step and connect with the right support, making this journey much less daunting."

A New Hampshire parent