Being a guardian to a teenager can be challenging enough
STEPSTONES
– a program that supports young people on their journey into adulthood
When your teen turns 18, many things change
They get to vote, get a driver’s license, and manage their own finances. Another change is that, around the age of 18, they will move from pediatric to adult healthcare, which can feel both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking.
Most teens need support to take greater responsibility for their health and condition. They also need preparation for the transition to adult healthcare and the adult world.
STEPSTONES is a supportive program for young people living with chronic illness who are transitioning into adulthood with all that it entails. The aim of the program is to help both the young person and you, their guardian, feel secure during the transition.
A suitable starting age for the STEPSTONES program is usually between 14-16 years.
As a guardian, you play an important role in your teen’s preparations!
The nurse is available to support you as a guardian during this process. The teenage years are a demanding time. Having your teen manage their own health and condition independently can feel nerve-wracking, and you, as a parent, may need support as you gradually transfer responsibility to your teen while helping them grow into their independence.
You are not alone.
How does STEPSTONES work?
The program includes individual and confidential conversations between your teen and a nurse, about once a year. During these sessions, we focus on the areas the young person wants to discuss. Common topics include information about their condition and how it affects daily life, ongoing care in adult healthcare, and other areas such as education, career choices, diet and exercise, friendships, alcohol, drugs, and sexuality.
Together, we create a plan for the transition to adult healthcare.
What does the STEPSTONES program include?
- Three individual and confidential sessions with a specialist nurse, your teen’s transition coordinator, approximately once a year. The coordinator supports your teen throughout the entire transition and is available for both of you during the process.
- A personalized plan to prepare your teen for the transition to adult healthcare. This plan is created together at the first meeting and continuously reviewed.
- Advice and support on the transition process and their condition, but the meetings can also cover other life topics important to your teen.
- Group sessions for young people and guardians. You’ll meet other young people and guardians in similar situations, the adult healthcare team, and older teens who have already completed the transition.
- A final meeting with the coordinator and staff from both pediatric and adult healthcare.
- Individual support for guardians as needed and upon request.
Want to know more?
Ask your healthcare provider about STEPSTONES!
Where is STEPSTONES available?
Currently, the STEPSTONES program is being introduced at the following clinics in Sweden, with more on the way! If you don’t see your clinic listed, ask about STEPSTONES at your next visit – it may be coming to you soon!
- Pediatric Cardiology Clinic Gothenburg, Queen Silvia Children’s Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg
- Pediatric Cardiology Clinic Lund, Skåne University Hospital, Lund
- Mottagning Pediatric Cardiology Clinic Solna, Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm
- Pediatric Diabetes Clinic Solna, Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm
- Pediatric Cardiology Clinic, Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria’s Children and Youth Hospital, Linköping
- Pediatric Cardiology Clinic, Norrland University Hospital, Umeå
- Pediatric and Youth Heart Clinic, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala
STEPSTONES
Because everyone deserves safe and supportive healthcare throughout life
Your teen too.
STEPSTONES 