Self-determination Guide for Parents

INTRODUCTION TO SELF-DETERMINATION

The decision of what to do after high school is difficult for anyone. For individuals with disabilities, the process may even be more difficult.

Self-Determination

Self-determination is the idea that all people have the right, responsibility, and authority to express and exercise freedom of choice in their own lives, and to live and learn according to those choices.

Self-determination is the skills, knowledge, and beliefs that help a person to be goal-directed, self-regulated, and independent.  Knowing your strengths and limitations, together with a belief that you are capable and effective are essential to self-determination.  When applying these skills and attitudes, a person becomes better able to take control of his or her life and be a successful adult in the community. 

Many students with disabilities may need help to acquire and use these skills, and may never be completely independent.  But everyone can be self-determined to some degree.  We know that when people have the most control in their lives they can manage, they have better jobs, better relationships and better lives.

Self-determination is important facet of transitioning from school, because it places the focus on what the student wants and helps him or her plan how to make it happen.  Self-determination can easily be included in IEP goals and objectives.

We subscribe to the Center for Self-determination's Principles, which are listed below: 

Choice

People have the right to choose how they will live their lives, where and with whom. When people need help, it is friends and family closest to them who assist them in broadening their experiences and exercising their right to choose. It is essential that each person have a circle of support choosen by them.

Relationships

The relationships a person has with others are like precious gems. A relationship must be treasured, nurtured and protected. Those with whom the individual has real relationships provide the strength, assistance, and security which ensure each person's well-being.

Contribution and Community

Everyone has the ability to contribute to his or her community in a meaningful way. Giving of self helps people establish a sense of belonging and identity. Community membership includes having an opportunity to be employed, to own a home, to be truly involved in the routines of the community and to make a difference in the lives of others.

Responsibilities

Individuals, as they take greater control and authority over their lives and resources, assume greater responsibility for their decisions and actions. Professionals and staff work for individuals rather than for the system. Families, friends and staff assist people in creating more meaningful relationships, link them with needed supports, remove barriers, develop safety networks, and help make dreams come true while never forgetting who is in charge.

Control

People have the power to make decisions and truly control their lives. This includes gaining authority over financial resources and the power to determine what supports are needed, whose they will be implemented and by whom. People also have control of hiring those who will provide support.

Dreaming

All people have hopes and dreams which guide the actions they take and are most meaningful to them. A commitment to helping people determine their dreams, respecting those dreams and helping make dreams come true is crucial.

Dignity and Respect

All people have an inherent right to be treated with dignity and to be respected as a whole person. Some of life's greatest lessons are learned by making choices that are later realized to have been mistakes. All people have the right to the dignity of risk. The network of support makes risk possible by weaving a safety net that supports growth.

Fiscal Conservatism

Making things happen does not always require money. It is imperative that alternatives to paid support be found. When support must be purchased, people will get what they need, pay only for what they get, make real investments, spend money more efficiently and make adjustments when they are needed. To find the best quality for the most reasonable price, people are free to purchase in and out of the system.

Whatever It Takes

Those who work in the system become barrier removers. The attitude, "Nothing is impossible, as long as it is legal and causes no harm," is required. "No, we can't" as an answer is replaced by "How can we make this happen?".