Transition to Independent Living
Recently, NSSA Transition Program Instructors Jason Watson and Stacey O’Brien had the opportunity to reconnect with Joseph, a former participant in NSSA’s Self Direction Transition Program. They were excited to learn that Joseph had recently moved into his own independent apartment.
During their visit, Joseph proudly gave them a tour of his new home and shared his experiences transitioning from living with his family to living independently. Throughout the conversation, they discussed many of the skills and concepts covered in the program through NSSA’s Life Long Learning Curriculum, as well as how Joseph has successfully applied and retained those lessons in his daily life and new living environment.
Joseph reflected on several areas of growth that have helped him succeed independently. One major area was cooking and kitchen safety. Through the program, he learned how to prepare meals, identify expiration dates, read nutritional labels and recipes, and use his senses to determine whether food is safe to eat. He shared that he now regularly checks expiration dates while grocery shopping and recently even taught a friend how to do the same.
Joseph also spoke about learning to do his own laundry and manage daily household responsibilities. In addition, he recalled lessons related to money management, including comparing prices while shopping, understanding correct change at restaurants and stores, and organizing and prioritizing bills and expenses.
NSSA’s Transition Program and Life Long Learning Curriculum focuses on many critically important areas that support increased independence at home and within the community. The program emphasizes the development of social and relationship-building skills, employment readiness, confidence, competence, adaptability, and flexibility.
In addition to practical life skills, the program provides opportunities for participants to build peer relationships, increase self-awareness, strengthen communication skills, and enhance overall independence. A core objective of the program is to help improve each participant’s overall happiness and quality of life.
Jason and Stacey were incredibly proud to hear how well Joseph is doing and to see the progress he has made. Maintaining connections with former participants and hearing about their continued success after completing the program is always meaningful for the NSSA team. NSSA is proud of each participant and grateful for the opportunity to support them through such an important stage of life