Some Support • Ages 14-16 • Goal 1:
Set Employment Goals
Action step 1.
Think about jobs and careers related to interests and skills.
As a teen, you can be active in the earliest discussions about future employment. Start with talking about your:
- Interests, including places and activities you like
- Skills and what you’re good at
- Sensory preferences
- Social preferences
Resources
Words to know
Action step 2.
Include employment assessments and goals in the IEP transition plan.
Employment assessment is part of IEP transition planning that begins sometime between ages 14 and 16. Timing of planning depends on state law. You and your parents participate in transition planning meetings with the IEP team and help set employment goals. For many students, a job skills assessment is a first step in the transition process.
Resources
Words to know
Some Support • Ages 14-16 • Goal 2:
Begin to Manage Money
Action step 1.
Use cash and credit responsibly.
Learning how to manage money takes time and practice. This includes learning how and when to use:
- Cash
- A debit card. This kind of card takes money directly out of a bank account.
- A credit card. This kind of card lets you borrow money to pay for something and then you pay the money back later.
You can start by making small purchases and learning to track your spending.
Resources
Action step 2.
Learn good spending, budgeting and saving habits.
Tracking what you buy is a good way to learn how much money it takes to pay for things. With an allowance or money you get for doing chores at home, you can:
- Learn to make a weekly budget.
- Plan for what you need to buy.
- Think about how to save for more expensive things, like clothes, a cell phone or a gaming system.
Resources
Action step 3.
Start planning for Supplemental Security Income.
When you turn 18 you apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is money for people with disabilities who have limited income. You have to apply for SSI at age 18, even if you already had it when you were younger. It can take a long time to apply. So get started early, well before you turn 18.
Resources
Words to know
You’ve reached the end of the action steps for this support level and age group.
- To find services and providers in your area, visit our Resource Guide.
- For direct contact with a member of our Autism Response Team, call 1-888-AUTISM2 (1-888-288-4762) or en Español 1-888-772-9050.
- Send an email to: help@autismspeaks.org.
