Perplexed in Translation: Bringing a Language Disorder to College

Abstract

Speech and language disorders significantly impact a youth’s quality of life and education status. Mild to moderate language impairments can be subtle and difficult to detect. Youth with Learning Disabilities transitioning to adulthood often have impact in the areas of post-secondary education, social communication and ultimate employment. The practicing clinician has an important role to play in facilitating collaboration among the student with learning challenges, the family, and the special education staff at the high school to ensure a realistic and solid understanding of the student’s learning challenges and strengths. Transition preparation and planning involves more than arranging for services at the post-secondary institution. It involves helping the student develop skills and strategies to manage learning issues, practicing self-advocacy skills, and working with the student to create a portable learning plan that can be taken to college.