Because growth doesn’t stop after graduation, supported employment success is built one small win at a time. Elizabeth’s story shows how those wins add up to big independence.
Elizabeth just got what we are calling a promotion. The catering company where she has worked since high school invited her to take on the monthly “set” parties, in addition to her regular hours and any extra events that pop up.
For Elizabeth, this is huge.
She loves to work (truly LOVES it), and her workplace loves her right back. The team took time to learn who she is and how she works best. For Elizabeth, clocking in feels a lot like coming home.
Why this milestone matters for supported employment success
Since middle school, Elizabeth has talked about two things: cooking and working with kids. We have nurtured those interests, class by class, shift by shift, skill by skill. As she has grown, expectations and opportunities have grown with her. That consistent, interest-led approach prepared her for moments exactly like this one. If communication clarity is part of your plan, many families explore Oral Placement Therapy and introductory online courses to build a simple at-home routine. For broader transition planning, the federal IDEA site explains student-centered goals and services in plain language at sites.ed.gov/idea, and parent-friendly guidance is available from the PACER Transition Center.
Employer partnerships & IEP-style check-ins for supported employment success
One strategy from Elizabeth’s school years still pays off: we regularly check in with the owner. We ask:
- How are things going?
- What skills would you like Elizabeth to build next?
- Are there any concerns we should work on together?
Recently, the owner requested a safety routine: Elizabeth should wait to be released before leaving to ensure all tasks are complete and she exits safely. Simply, specific feedback like this gives us a clear plan to practice at home and on the job, much like an IEP meeting, only for employment goals. For conversation starters, printable visuals, and caregiver tips, you can browse the TalkTools Resource Library. If you are exploring reasonable workplace supports, the Job Accommodation Network offers free, expert guidance on practical accommodations that help employees succeed.
The result: more shifts, more skills, more confidence
As Elizabeth has worked, she has grown in competence, in confidence, and in independence. She is proud of this new responsibility, and we are proud of her. For anyone wondering whether young adults are learning after school, our answer is a resounding no. Progress continues when we keep the supports, routines, and communication going. If you are building a toolkit at home, consider starting with one or two items from our Books and Manuals. For broader employment inclusion resources, see the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy at dol.gov/agencies/odep and the Employment First community at APSE.
Practical ideas for families and employers
- Lead with interests. Build job tasks around what motivates the person. For structured activities that strengthen soft skills, see ODEP’s youth resources at dol.gov/agencies/odep/program-areas/individuals/youth and entry-level self-study courses you can complete at your own pace.
- Make feedback. Turn comments into practice goals, for example, “confirm release before leaving.”
- Create clear routines. Visual checklists and end-of-shift scripts reduce anxiety and errors.
- Practice communication. Role-play greetings, requests for help, and safety phrases. For consumer-friendly information about speech and language, see ASHA’s Public Resources, and for speech-motor foundations review Oral Placement Therapy.
- Celebrate micro-wins. Extra shifts, new tasks, or positive notes from a manager all count. To connect with a national disability advocacy network, visit The Arc.
Keep practicing the skills that matter.
Keep asking for clear, actionable feedback.
Keep celebrating every shift, every task, and every win.
Growth continues, and Elizabeth is living proof.
Need help building the routines? Book a consultation.