“I am so afraid I will make the wrong choice,” a mom shared with the Seven Hills Family Support Specialist.
This fear is something many parents and caregivers feel as their child approaches the end of school-based services. For years, families have relied on a structured system of support—teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and individualized planning through an IEP. But when school ends, those supports often disappear, leaving families wondering: what comes next?

Understanding the Transition to Adulthood

When a young adult ages out of school services, families face a major shift. Questions can feel overwhelming:

• How will my child spend their days?

• Where will they make friends and build social connections?

• Will they work, volunteer, or continue learning?

• What supports are available now that school services have ended?

The transition to adulthood is not a single decision—it’s a process that involves exploring options, building a support network, and identifying what matters most for your child’s future.

A Framework to Help You Plan

One helpful approach is the Integrated Support Star, developed through Charting the LifeCourse. This framework encourages families to think holistically about adulthood by focusing on five key areas:

• Personal Strengths & Interests – What does your child enjoy? What are they good at?

• Friends & Family Relationships – Who are the important people in their life?

• Technology – What tools can support independence and connection?

• Community – Where can they participate, volunteer, or build relationships?

• Eligibility-Based Supports – What services and programs are available to them?

By considering all five areas, families can move beyond fear and begin building a balanced, meaningful plan for adulthood.

Connecting Families to Local Resources

You don’t have to navigate this transition alone. The Seven Hills Family Support Centers help families take the next step by hosting a

Transition to Adulthood Resource Fair:

Monday, May 18, 1:00 – 6:00 PM, at Devens Common Center, Devens, MA
This event is designed specifically for families navigating life after school services. More than 40 vendors will be on-site, representing a wide range of supports across the Integrated Support Star categories—from employment and day programs to social opportunities and community resources.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Feeling unsure or afraid during this transition is completely normal. But with the right information, tools, and connections, families can replace uncertainty with confidence.

Events like the Transition to Adulthood Resource Fair offer a valuable opportunity to ask questions, explore options, and begin building a plan that reflects your child’s strengths, goals, and future.

You don’t have to have all the answers today—but taking one step, like attending this resource fair, can make all the difference.
Contact your local Family Support Center for more resources >