Resource Centre

Preparing for Adult Life: Growing Up Ready Framework

Framework Overview

• Vision reflects a shared responsibility for preparing for adult life.  “We” includes youth, families and service providers.  The statement also highlights the importance of having positive expectations for the future.
• There is a developmental sequence to life skills acquisition.  The framework encourages families and youth to start early to prepare for adult life.  By starting early, youth can gain the skills they need gradually.
• The framework incorporates an individualized planning and youth/family centred approach.  Youth and families use the elements of the framework that they feel will assist them in preparing for the future. 

Guiding Principles

• We respect that the family is the expert on raising their child.
• We respect that each child and family is unique.
• We believe that it is essential that you and families start early to prepare for the future.
• We plan a systematic approach to a gradual shift in responsibility from provider and parents to the youth as developmentally appropriate.
• We all share responsibility for discussing and promoting the development of growing up skills.
• We are committed to ensuring all youth and families receive support for growing up ready. 
• We exchange information with colleagues around the world to ensure that our programs are leading edge.
• We believe that research and evaluation are vital parts of our work.

Framework Enablers:

• Organizational Commitment:
  • Bloorview recognizes the importance of preparing youth for adult life and provide resources to address it (including staff education).
  • Create a culture of openness to change.
• Systems Action & Capacity Building:
  • Research and evaluate
  • Network with national and international colleagues to share best practices and evidence
  • Collaborate with pediatric and adult service agencies and communities

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