Focal Point Spring 2001

Walker, J. S.

This editorial describes the common features of programs and practices that facilitate successful transitions for children with emotional and behavioral challenges.

Van Anne, J.

This essay, by a mother and special educator, describes the difficult transition to kindergarten for her own son, a child with an emotional disability.

Lehman, C., Friesen, B. & Brennan, E.

This article describes research on successful programs to support successful transition to kindergarten for children with emotional or behavioral difficulties. It also describes preliminary findings of an investigation of successful transition strategies.

Albright, L., Brown, S. & Kelly, D.M.

This article describes a successful intervention to support young children with mental health needs.

Mitchell, B.

This article reviews the needs of homeless families of children with emotional and behavioral challenges, and describes strategies for reaching out to these families to help address their needs.

Polgar, M. & Cabassa, L.

This article describes the results of a study of the organizations that supply care for youth with mental health concerns. The focus of the research is on understanding the continuity (or discontinuity) of care for youth transitioning to adulthood.

Caplan, J.

This first–person essay, by a young man with mental health challenges, focuses on the various supports that helped him make a successful transition to high school.

Deschenes, N. & Clark, H.B.

This article provides an overview of the complex challenge of transition to adult roles for children with emotional and behavioral difficulties. The article goes on to identify guidelines for best practices in transition programs.

Ogilvie, M.

This article summarizes the research base on transition from residential treatment back to the community. Research shows better transition and improved outcomes for children who maintain a strong relationship with their families and community.

Friesen, B., Kruzich, J. M., Robinson, A., Jivanjee, P., Pullmann, M. & Bowles, C.

This article reports on a survey examining limitations that were placed on parent child-contact when the child was placed in residential care. Eighty–three percent of parents reported that their contact with their children had been limited; and 59% reported that contact was contingent on the child's behavior.

Griller–Clark, H.

This article outlines some challenges facing correctional employees and educators in providing transition services to youth with disabilities within the juvenile justice system. A successful transition program in Arizona is described, and the article concludes with a listing of promising practices.

Harrak, T., Ama, S. & Caplan, E.

This article describes the evolution and passage of the federal Act that authorized the Chafee Independence Program, a program designed to help foster youth better negotiate the transition to independent living.

O'Dell, K., Alba, L., Lehman, C., Mayer, J. & Hein, M.

This article describes Powerhouse, a program that supports youth transitioning from foster care. Powerhouse provides assistance with coordination of services including houseing, education, career development and training, employment, and health and mental health. The program seeks to support youth as they gain skills for independent living.