In Dr. Rytter’s presentation, she defines self-determination according to her own experiences as a professional in the field as well as a close observer of adults with disabilities who were not self-determined. This discussion sheds insight on the importance of becoming self-determined. Dr. Rytter then poses the question regarding when and how to begin to teach children with disabilities the necessary skills to increase the likelihood that these youngsters will become self-determined in adolescence and adulthood. She uses case studies throughout the presentation to illustrate key points. Lastly, Dr. Rytter explains one of the approaches she has used to teach children the skills to gain self-determined knowledge and abilities.
