Creating Success in the Workplace

The years go by so quickly. It’s important to start early when helping your child plan for their future. In many cases, children with disabilities begin attending their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings by age 14. These meetings allow them to be involved in selecting classes centered around their interests. It will also help you and your child map out the graduation plan you want to follow. Many school districts have post-high school programs that your child can participate in. 

My son just got hired at a very fancy restaurant. He works part-time in the kitchen, helping to prepare food. How did this happen?  It was made possible by a team of people that helped make sure he was successful.  

An essential factor in the job hunt is connecting with companies that want to employ people with disabilities. Let your friends know that your child wants to be employed. A friend of mine knew of a restaurant that believed in hiring people with disabilities. 

I immediately reached out to them to share why my son would be a great fit. We worked with his Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) representative to determine his strengths. Then an amazing job coach, paid for by TWC, started helping him prepare for the job.

His job coach worked on interviewing skills. This helped him feel more comfortable during the interview and to know what to expect. The manager knew about his disabilities and believed he would work well in their kitchen. He was right!  

The restaurant assigned him a mentor. The mentor made sure that he understood the instructions and the job expectations. His job coach worked closely with his mentor. In the beginning, she confirmed tasks were completed properly.  

I also made sure to check in with his mentor, supervisor and the management team to make sure they were pleased with his progress. He is doing a great job. Now, his job coach only stops in to check on him once or twice a week.  

He has natural support in the workplace. This means that other co-workers help him if he has questions and are there to support him. He is responsible for his work area, prepping the food and cleaning up his workspace. If he needs to take a break for a few minutes, he is allowed this time and his supervisor understands.

This is a fantastic work experience for my son. The restaurant where he works employs someone who wants to work, is reliable and cares about getting the job done right.

This can be your loved one, too. Don’t know where to begin? Use Start my VR to get connected with TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Start networking, work with your TWC representative and make it happen!

Here is information about careers and career planning for your child.