Developmental Disabilities And Family Related Issues

By Author: Katherine Briggs
Total Articles: 7
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Grief is one of the most typical reactions parents have whenever they find out their child has developmental disabilities. Shock, anger, sadness, fear, and resentment also come in.

Parents of children with disabilities cope better when they're backed up by families. Through this, any additional burden of physical and emotional care decreases. Talking about your troubles with other parents will be a big help. In the long-term, caring for the kid may become easier as parents figure out how to manage and adapt the required skills.

With regards to the severity of the disability, most children with disabilities need frequent medical attention, time in hospital, and therapy. This is as well as the extra care they need to receive at home. Some even need continuous supervision.

The stress of caring for a disabled child generally brings about anxiety or depression among the parents. Aside from affecting the parental relationship, these can have a great effect on the family's finances too.

Parents of children with disabilities also worry that their other kids may feel neglected. On the other hand, parents ...
... who have a positive outlook usually cope in a healthier way.

Many parents are clueless about the useful information within the child's medical records. Knowing what's there can help make smart decisions. If you fear that your child is developing a disability, listed below are methods to assist you in finding out.

- The paper or note cards method. Jot down notes once something unexpected happens. When someone share alarming stories about the child, be sure to jot them down, too. Gather the child's drawings and other creations. They might give crucial insights during medical consultations. Also pay attention to the child's weight. Oftentimes, the Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication that something is wrong with the child. If the BMI is beneath the 5th percentile, they are probably underweight. If BMI is greater than the 85th percentile, they are overweight. When you get these results, it is advisable to speak with your doctor as quickly as possible.

- Checklist method. Make up a listing of categories and watch the child's behavior or reaction. Be objective. Take note of only what the child actually does or says, never your interpretation of the actions. Again, show the outcomes to your physician for evaluation.

Parents and families of disabled children really should be encouraged to have a stronger voice. It is advisable to wait for your doctor's advice rather than solving the case on your own.

If you have a child with developmental disabilities, you may want to keep the following in mind:

- Children with special needs are kids first. They require love, acceptance, friends, chances to participate, and chances to shine. Never focus on what your child can or can't do, focus on the individual strengths.

- Feel free to ask other professionals, like therapists and specialists concerning your situation.

- Develop a strategy with the family to addresses the child's specific needs.

- Keep communication lines open. Contact your family members and therapists, whenever you feel you need further tips.

Katherine Briggs is a parent searching for studies on developmental disabilities and children with disabilities.