SLIDE 1
Picture of an urban city highway, lot so roads and buildings in community
And I Want to Ride It All Day Long
Taking the Driver's Seat Towards Independence
Independence Is A Highway

SLIDE 2
Watching your parents driving the minivan 
Just like watching your parents drive, you learn independence by watching it.

SLIDE 3
As a young child you learn how to advocate for yourself by watching your parents advocate for you. 
Your parents show you that you have rights and that you belong. 
A youth will learn self-knowledge.
When Daddy Let Me Drive (sitting on Daddy's lap) 
A child begins to learn how to advocate for themselves with baby-steps.
They need to make small decisions such as; asking for something they need from a teacher. 
You discuss what you need in school with your parents. 
Practice helps to develop advocacy skills.

SLIDE 4
Cartoon picture of someone leaving wheelchair behind
Studying for the Permit Test
Learning from others can be the best tool in becoming independent.
It is important to learn about self, disability, needs, and rights. 
Attend conferences, disability groups, peer leadership groups.
Knowledge promotes confidence and self-acceptance.

SLIDE 5
Small graphic of certificate that says Congratulations
Driving on a Permit
Being on a "Permit" gives a youth the freedom to be independent but with the supervision of a parent.
Make your own decisions, with parental guidance.
Youth are able to start pursuing goals they have set for themselves.

SLIDE 6
Small picture of a sports car
The Driver's Test
There is no one test, each new situation is its own test.  Sometimes you pass and sometimes you fail, but like the driver test, it can be taken again and again until you get it right. 

The previously established self-determination will then assist him or her in overcoming obstacles and barriers (tests) that are bound to emerge. 

SLIDE 7
Adult License 
With practice and guidance a person can achieve their independence.
Through their independence, experiences, and personal growth they have many of the building blocks in leadership development.
 These leadership skills can lead to successful adult lives. 

SLIDE 8
Background picture of closed curtains
Thank You
Feel free to contact Josie Badger
Phone- 724-944-0429
Email- josiebadger@hotmail.com