A self-determined person recognizes opportunities for choice in their life and sets goals and a path for their future. They recognize their abilities and advocate for necessary supports and accommodations to participate in their community. Becoming selfdetermined requires consistent opportunities, effective instruction in these skills, and encouragement to practice and use these skills. Environmental, attitudinal, and systemic barriers can limit the development of selfdetermination, however a person who is deafblind with a positive self-image and a
strong system of support move past these roadblocks. In this presentation we'll explore approaches and practical strategies to build and practice these skills through childhood, adolescence, and into adulthood. You will learn from an adult with CHARGE syndrome about the barriers she encountered and the people, strategies, and supports that were most helpful in her path toward selfdetermination.