Transition from childhood into adulthood
What changes when a child with special needs reaches adulthood?
As a parent, you are the child’s legal representative until the child is under 18. This means that you have the right to act on their behalf and make formal requests. When the child reaches the age of majority, ie 18, you can no longer act on your child’s behalf with the authorities. As an adult, they will need to submit the necessary applications to get the help and support they need.
There are different opportunities, requirements, and conditions for supporting and assisting children and adults. To make sure your child continues to get the support and help they need when they reach adulthood, be sure to consult your local child protection official or social services worker, who will be able to give you information on what benefits and services change as they reach adulthood.
Upon reaching adulthood, compulsory basic education attendance ends. It is, therefore, worthwhile to consider further learning options with your child if they wish to continue their studies. For advice and assistance, please contact the Rajaleidja centres.
Important to know concerning this step
Under Estonian law, a person is an adult once they reach 18 years of age.
A child is considered to be of working age once they reach 16 years of age. It is important to remember that a young person of working age aged 16–17 is not an adult for legal purposes!
Support services and benefits for persons of working age and adults are different from those for children only. This applies to municipal services and subsidies, as well as to aid organised by the state.
In most cases, the primary distinction regarding the receipt of benefits and services is whether the individual is a minor (a child) or an adult. However, for young people with special needs, reaching working age is also a significant factor. For example, the determination of disability and the assessment of work ability, as well as the organisation of rehabilitation services, change as people reach working age. The changes to the organisation of support and assistance are explained in more detail in the following sections. Feel free to ask your local child protection official or social services worker for clarification.
Contacts
Ministry of Social Affairs