In this article Sylvana shares her son's initial steps into post school life. As with most families, the self managed approach at first seemed to onerous to manage with family, work and other commitments. It was also perceived as an option available to only a select few. However, Sylvana found the self managed approach life changing, not just for her son, but the the family is a whole. Sylvana explains, it is all about thinking, planning and developing skills so that your son or daughter is seen as a valued member of the community. A flexible approach that is more in keeping with a person's unique needs that places them at the centre, rather than just a recipient of a service.