A late ADHD or autism diagnosis in high school is more common than you think — and more manageable than it feels. This guide for parents covers the most important next steps: securing a psychoeducational evaluation, applying for SAT and ACT accommodations, understanding 504 plans vs. IEPs, and finding colleges with the right support infrastructure. You have more options than you think.

Summer can be a low-pressure launchpad for neurodivergent and learning-different teens. The right program offers structure, peer connection, and a first taste of independence, whether through academics, adventure, internships, or autism-focused communities. By centering a student’s strengths, interests, and sensory needs, families can turn summer into a meaningful step toward college readiness and greater confidence.

Midterm grades are in and there's still half a semester left — here's exactly what to ask your freshman, what to watch for, and how to help them course-correct before finals.

Only 40% of students with learning differences graduate college successfully. The key? Starting college readiness development in 9th grade, not waiting until junior year panic sets in. Research from 50+ college program directors reveals five critical skills that determine success: genuine motivation, independent living capabilities, executive function, self-advocacy, and social connections. Students who develop these college success skills early have years to practice and ref

Starting your college search and preparation during junior year isn't just recommended; it's essential for reducing stress and finding your perfect academic fit. By beginning early, you'll have ample time to explore your options, develop crucial skills, and make informed decisions about your future. For students with learning differences, this measured approach is especially crucial, as the application process demands significant organization and planning skills.

High school isn’t just about getting into college; it’s also about building the skills to thrive once there. From choosing the right academic challenge and fostering independence to making reading a habit, traveling to broaden perspectives, and teaching essential life skills, parents can help their teens prepare for both college and adulthood. Start early to make the transition smoother and more successful.

The summer before college is your launchpad for success; use it to get organized, connect with your roommate, attend orientation, and prepare for independence. Practice life skills, monitor student portals, and handle key logistics like health insurance, finances, and academic planning. A little effort now sets the tone for a smooth transition and a confident, exciting start to college life!

Executive function skills like time management, organization, and task initiation are key to college success—especially for students with ADHD or learning differences. Start early in high school, fade support gradually, and explore tools like Google Calendar and Pomodoro timers. The right college support programs can make all the difference.

This is a guide to what key questions to ask colleges in order to find the right support for students with learning disabilities.

Preparing for college can be a challenging task, especially for students with ADHD. The transition requires a set of skills that must be dev

Prepare for freshman year this summer: research clubs, register with disability services, check college email, explore campus resources, dev

The transition to college presents unique challenges for autistic students — but with the right preparation in high school, your teen can build the social, academic, and self-advocacy skills they need to thrive.

The panicked "I hate it here" call from your college freshman is more common than you think — especially for neurodivergent students. Here's how to respond in a way that actually helps.

SUMMARY Getting accommodations approved is only half the battle — actually using them effectively requires communicating directly with each professor, early and consistently. Research shows that students who proactively discuss their learning needs with professors are significantly more successful than those who don't. This post walks through 10 practical tips for having those conversations confidently, from scheduling your first meeting in week one to reminding professors ab

Move-in day is closer than you think — here are 10 practical life skills to practice this summer so you're not learning them the hard way in September.

For students with learning disabilities, waiting until junior year to think about college is too late. Here's what to work on starting in 9th grade — and why the earlier you start, the better.

Meet with your school counselor or special education teacher to discuss your current IEP or 504 Plan. Make sure you are aware of your accommodations and know what you rely on and what you may be able to navigate without. Discuss how you can start adjusting to the support services that are likely to be available to you in college. Begin developing self-advocacy and self-awareness skills and learn how to communicate your needs and preferences so that you are prepared for speaki

5 key areas to consider if your teen has special learning needs Next Step College!? If you are a parent of an autistic teen, or who has...