The teenage years correspond with major physical, emotional, social and psychological changes (link to raising children network?) It is a time for increased independence particularly in the community. This means that your child will require increased opportunities to develop skills, strategies and experiences in the key areas of Orientation and Mobility, Independent Living Skills and Social Skills.

Consider what is are age appropriate lifestyle choices for a young person in the 13-17 years stage. Typically, it is time for the family to manage the process of ‘letting go’. Usually there is a testing of the boundaries of independence and the authority of the parent/s as the teenager prepares for adulthood. Your child’s peer group will usually become more influential in the child’s decision making.

To successfully handle the demands of the teenage years and to prepare for adulthood, your child will require competencies across all eight lifeskills areas. As mentioned Orientation and Mobility, Independent Living Skills and Social Skills provide a solid foundation for your child to live an age appropriate lifestyle as a teenager. These skills will enable your child to maximise their potential and participation in Leisure/Recreation and Career Education options.

Adaptive Technology,Functional Compensatory , Braille/Visual Efficiency Skills are also essential for your child to be productive and successful in the School and increasingly in the Community Environment.