Resource Link

https://www.unmc.edu/mmi/family-resources/community-services/sdm.html

Resource Description

Introduction: This resource is a set of three brochures on Supported Decision-Making (SDM). SDM is a method that empowers individuals with disabilities to make their own choices with the help of trusted supporters. SDM is a practical, flexible, and less restrictive alternative to guardianship. It encourages independence, self-determination, and better quality of life. The brochures address guardianship, independent living, and special education. These brochures help people learn about supported decision-making. This is a way for people with disabilities to make their own choices with help from trusted people. The brochures explain how supported decision-making works better than guardianship for many people.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: The first brochure talks about guardianship and supported decision-making. Many parents think guardianship is the only way to help their child stay safe. With guardianship, a judge gives someone else the right to make choices for a person. But supported decision-making lets people keep their right to make choices. With supported decision-making, people pick helpers they trust. These helpers explain things and help think about choices. But the person with a disability makes the final choice. This helps people feel more sure of themselves. It helps them live better lives. Even people who need a lot of help can often make choices with the right support. The second brochure shows how schools can use supported decision-making. Schools should help students get ready for adult life. But many schools tell parents to get guardianship without talking about other choices. Students do better when they learn to make their own choices. They can find jobs more easily. They can live more on their own. Students can help make plans for their school work. These plans are called IEPs. When students help make these plans, they learn how to speak up for what they want. They learn how to set goals. This helps them get ready for adult life. The third brochure is about leaving high school. This can be a hard time for students with disabilities. Schools must help students get ready for life after high school. Students can use supported decision-making to plan for their future. Students can write goals that start with "I will." This helps them think about what they want to do. They can work with teachers and others to reach these goals. There are many places that can help, like job training centers and groups that help people live on their own. All three brochures show that supported decision-making helps people grow. It lets them make their own choices while getting help when they need it. This works better than having someone else make all their choices for them.