The transition from pediatric to adult services is one of the most critical periods for autistic youth. Start planning at age 14 to avoid the "services cliff" that occurs at 18 when OAP funding ends.
Apply for ODSP
Delays mean gap in financial support
Apply to DSO
DSO waitlists can be 2+ years
Guardianship decision
After 18, requires court application
Add transition goals
Required by law in Ontario schools
Follow this timeline to ensure your child is prepared for adult services at 18.
Comprehensive transition planning addresses all areas of adult life, not just services and funding.
Post-secondary options, vocational training, life skills programs
Work experience, supported employment, career planning
Housing options, daily living skills, community supports
Adult healthcare providers, mental health, self-care
Community connections, friendships, leisure activities
Guardianship, banking, benefits, legal capacity
Ontario schools are legally required to include transition planning in IEPs starting in Grade 9.
DSO is the gateway to adult developmental services. Apply at age 16 due to waitlist delays.
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Join thousands of Ontario families advocating for timely autism services.
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is independently verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: February 1, 2026.
Verified Facts
87,692 — children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
US$2.4M — Lifetime support costs for autism with co-occurring intellectual disability can reach US$2.4 million per person (Buescher et al.)
1 in 50 — According to the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth, about children and youth aged 1 to 17 in Canada had an autism diagnosis
23.1% — 23,875 children enrolled in Core Clinical Services; 20,293 have active funding agreements ()
WHO recommends accessible, community-based early interventions for children with autism — timely evidence-based psychosocial interventions improve communication and social engagement
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