Facts and myths about transition to adulthood

Myth: Transition is a one-off event.

Fact: Transition is an ongoing process that needs effective planning and an approach that is participatory, holistic and across agencies.

Myth: Transition is a fixed program.

Fact: Transition should be a flexible process based on individual needs—it is a developmental process which may change over time.

Myth: Transition and change are the same thing.

Fact: Change is situational. This means it involves movement from one environment, situation or condition to another. Transition is psychological—the path from one change to another.

Children in care experience many major and critical changes. We need to recognise this, and plan for their transition and empower them. This is a vital part of effective practice. If we give attention to how transition is managed while a young person is in care, we can assist to reduce the effects of trauma, grief and loss, and improve outcomes—to achieve stable independence in adulthood.