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Joanna Lilley — Rethinking 18 for Complex Kids: What Really Happens at Adulthood
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In this episode, Michelle sits down with young-adult consultant Joanna Lilley to talk about the moment so many parents fear: the 18th birthday. Joanna breaks down why turning 18 doesn’t magically make a child ready for adult life—and how families of complex and neurodivergent kids can create a calmer, more supported transition.
Joanna shares:
Why 18 feels so scary.
Parents worry they’ll suddenly lose all control and access. Joanna reframes the transition as a process—not a deadline.
A realistic “launch plan.”
Some 18-year-olds function like 15-year-olds, and that’s okay. Joanna…
The skinny
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