Transition Planning: Knowledge and Preferences of Latinx Families of Youth With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

Due to systemic barriers, Latinx parents of youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) report having limited involvement in transition planning. To facilitate parent involvement in transition planning, it is critical to solicit feedback from Latinx families to inform the content and mode of a transition planning intervention. The purpose of this study was to explore Latinx parents' knowledge and preferred mode for a transition planning intervention. Twenty-eight Latinx parents of transition-aged youth with IDD completed surveys and focus groups. Participants reported wanting an intervention to focus on school-based transition planning and adult services; to a lesser extent, participants wanted information about natural supports. Regarding modality, participants desired in-person or online training (versus a brochure). Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Keywords: Latinx; parents; services; special education; transition planning.