The manual offers guidance in coping with the major transitions commonly encountered by persons with disabilities. Seven life/education transitions are identified: (1) the environment of services for a child from birth to age 3; (2) the first preschool program for children aged 3 and 4; (3) movement of the disabled child into kindergarten at age 5; (4) placement in an elementary school program at age 6; (5) transition of the child into middle school; (6) movement to high school; and (7) the transition from school to work for the adult. A hypothetical case study of a multiply disabled child illustrates the guidelines. Chapters I and II are addressed to parents, cover the first five stages, and include check lists and examples of problems that need advocacy (e.g., lack of school integration). Chapters III and IV are addressed to the student and/or adult with a disability. Check lists for students, parents, school personnel, and vocational rehabilitation personnel are provided as are sample problems requiring advocacy (e.g., lack of school to work transition planning). Appendixes include steps in developing an Individual Family Service Plan, forms, and a glossary of terms. A bibliography of 54 items is also included. (DB)