Lost in Transition: Understanding ‘Failure to Thrive’ in Teens and Young Adults with IDD
Sometimes it feels like a teen or young adult with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) just... stop moving forward. Maybe they’ve lost interest in things they used to enjoy, struggle with motivation, or seem stuck in routines that no longer work for them. The Senior Director of the Family Institute at The Arc of New Jersey, Lisa Ford, is here tSometimes it feels like a teen or young adult with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) just... stop moving forward. Maybe they’ve lost interest in things they used to enjoy, struggle with motivation, or seem stuck in routines that no longer work for them.
We’ll look at why this happens, how to spot the signs early, and ways families, educators, and support teams can help young people re-engage, build confidence, and find new paths forward. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, teacher, or provider, you’ll leave with tools, hope, and a better understanding of how to support continued growth during this tricky stage of life.
We’ll talk about:
What “failure to thrive” can look like in teens and young adults with IDD
Why some individuals hit a plateau — and how to respond
The role of mental health, independence, and life transitions
Strategies to reignite motivation and progress
Ways to work together as a support team