Parenting A Child With A Disability

There are many different types of disabilities but parents of disabled children face similar issues. Parents worry about what the future holds for their disabled child, they feel guilty for neglecting their other children, they might resent the impact that the disability has on family life and they are often under-prepared and lacking in skills required to handle things alone. Reaching out for personal and community support is a vital way to share the load and keep the family unit together and functioning.

There are so many families going through similar issues as you, so seek them out for information and support. Try joining a support group in your area, make contact with a disability organization or child health center. Contact your local school or government department and see if they can advise you on resources that may be available to you and your family.

Often the first thing to suffer in families with disabled children is the couple relationship. Make it a priority to spend time alone with your partner. If you are a sole-parent then take some time out away from the family. Make use of respite care services, friends and relatives, so that the family as a whole can take a break from caring.

Siblings of disabled children also need special attention. Try to find quality one-on-one time with these children. Let them know that they are just as important and always show your appreciation for the things they do and the contribution they make to the family unit.

Encourage siblings of children with disabilities to link up with other children in similar situations. Camps and activities organized by disability organizations are great places for siblings to interact with similar families and provide a wonderful opportunity for discussion and sharing of experiences.