Transition Services
A set of activities designed to help your child move from school to adult life. Starting at age 16 (or earlier in some states), the IEP must include goals and services for post-school education, employment, and independent living.
Transition Services in context
Transition Services comes up across the IEP process — in your IEP document, during meeting prep, and in the federal rights that protect your child. Rules and timelines can also vary by state — find your state's parent training centers and dispute options in our State IEP Guides.
If this term affects your child's annual goals, test whether they are measurable using our free IEP Goal Checker or follow our step-by-step IEP Annual Review Checklist.
Related Terms
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
A written plan created for your child that describes their current abilities, sets learning goals, and lists the special education services they will receive. It's a legal document that the school must follow.
Transition Plan
Part of the IEP that outlines your child's goals and the services needed to prepare for life after high school. It addresses areas like further education, employment, and daily living skills.
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Check the Whole IEP — Free →This glossary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Definitions are simplified for parent-friendly understanding and may not reflect the full legal text. Consult a qualified attorney or advocate for advice about your specific situation.