162. What happens after high school? (Ft. Val - Recent OT Grad + TLFP Producer!)

So what happens when someone with Down syndrome graduates high school? When the structure and support from the education system ends, what begins? Today we’re talking about inclusive employment for adults with Down syndrome with our very own, Val Schlieder! She recently earned her doctorate degree in occupational therapy, produces this podcast, and is also very involved in her local DS community! As part of her OT schooling, she created an employment-prep program for adults with DS that focused on problem solving, social appropriateness, self-advocacy, & so much more. Today she’s sharing about the barriers to inclusive employment (hint: ableism!), the importance of autonomy, all the things people with DS ADD to a workplace, and how parents of young kiddos can start thinking about the future. Enjoy this episode, friends! -- SHOW NOTES Listen to our previous episode with Val and her sister to learn more about fostering friendships with peers who have DS: 43. Back to School & All Things Best Buddies ft. Val Schlieder Learn more about GiGi’s Playhouse in EP 59: Finding Community at GiGi’s Playhouse w/Nancy Gianni Listen to more episodes about future opportunities for adults with Down syndrome. 47. Planning for the Future w/Phillip Clark from Enable SNP 55. All Things Puberty & DS Ft. Dr. Partridge 66. Public Speaking & Self-Advocacy 89. Let’s Talk About Transitions ft. Kenzie Clark 122. Cohome: An Inclusive Housing Program That Everyone Should Know About! 126. Creating Opportunities & Changing Perspectives Through Inclusive Employment ft. Wendy Lacey (Cornerstone Montclair) Get involved with The Lucky Few Foundation’s Summer Storytelling Tour HERE. Pre-order Everyone Belongs by Heather Avis HERE. LET’S CHAT Email [email protected] with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email [email protected] for more information!