The purpose of this sequential mixed methods study was to determine if students with autism from 19-to-26 years of age who receive instruction in Daily Living Skills (DLS) class sustain, improve, or decline in their ability to generalize DLS at home and in the community. Research regarding how well students with autism from 19-to-26 years of age are able to generalize DLS at home and in the community was reviewed for this study. DLS is a required class in center-based programs for students with autism, but little research has been published on effects of applying these skills in specific age groups to real-life situations. Constructivism as a theory of cognition provides the theoretical framework for this research study. Parents with students from 14-to-18 years of age (n=34) and those with students from 19-to-26 years of age (n=25) completed the Vineland II Adaptive Behavior Scale. A second data collection process involved two focus groups (5 parents each of the same age groups) to obtain qualitative data. The two research questions address parents' perceptions of the ability of their child with autism to apply DLS in their home and community. Quantitative findings of this study provided support that parents perceive their children with autism were applying skills learned in DLS classes at home and in the community. Focus group responses were analyzed using content analysis to examine the similarities and differences between the two groups of parents. Results of this analysis supported the findings that 19-to-26 year olds were applying DLS better than students from 14-to-18 years of age. Continuing public education services through 26 years of age prepares young adults with autism to apply DLS at home and in the community. Continuing education through 26 years of age prepares students with autism for adult living and can enhance their quality of life. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]