Have you ever wondered about the difference between a “special” (i.e. only neurodivergent) and an “ordinary” (i.e. mostly neurotypical) workplace?!!
It’s easy to assume that our loved ones with developmental disabilities simply focus on their job and that the environment they work in doesn’t matter. But have we taken a moment to consider the implications of the workplace environment?
We live in a world where people with developmental disabilities are still pushed towards the “special” environments, and when it comes to work the legacy of sheltered workshops is still deeply ingrained.
As parents and caregivers, the choices we make between “special” and “ordinary” options have a profound impact on the lives of our loved ones, the community we live in, and even the world at large.
In this talk, we’ll take a deep dive into the impacts of special vs. ordinary workplaces by looking at the larger world and community perspective. This will set the stage for next week’s video/podcast where we’ll explore the individual impacts on your loved one of these “special” and “ordinary” workplace environments.
Click the video below to gain valuable insights that will empower you and your loved one to make informed decisions for their journey towards an Awesome Ordinary Life! Together, we can navigate the complexities and unlock the possibilities of creating a fulfilling and inclusive future.
Join me on this important discussion and let’s take that crucial step forward.
Press play below now!
The 12-Independence Tips Guide!
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Eric, I am so excited about your program. You have truly captured a niche that is so needed in communities. Able bodied persons that have abilities that are different are able to learn and work and be contributors to society and the work force, it just takes educating the community to work with this population in the workforce and assisting parents and guardians in helping their children to be more independent and thus more self sufficient. I truly wish there was a way I could work with you and your program with my full time job. This is my life’s passion. I will look you up when I retire!
After being unemployed a year post-high school graduation, my son with an ASD went to work at the sheltered workshop. Not in the transition plan, but it was an opportunity that paid money and could provide a work experience opportunity. After five years, he know has a competitive job. I have a soft spot now for supported employment.
NOW has a competitive job and in a neurotypical environment
What is NOW?
As a parent of two men 21 and 22 on the spectrum there is so much talk of inclusion but none really being down. Even when it comes to jobs I find very few willing to hire my boys who are considered very high functioning and are very capable.
Our daughter Angela works in a grocery store – along with other neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals. While there are some significant challenges (mainly regarding interactions with others – coworkers and customers), I feel it’s a great place for her to learn about the diversity of people that she would never experience in a “sheltered” environment, and therefore “real society”. Thanks Eric.
I agree with your analyses to the difference between the two work environment but may be I am thinking working in the sheltered work environment might be some and not a lot of flexibility but I am not sure yet and I am only assuming because my LO is not working as of yet.