Whether your new to being a parent of a disabled kid or you’ve been parenting for a while, it can still be difficult.
So we’ve put together some key things to keep in mind. This post comes from our new product – The Parents Guide.
It’s Okay To Grieve
As a parent of a disabled kid, it is always important to remember that is okay to grieve.
You probably had some many hopes for your child that now are not possible, and it is important to recognise this and mourn that loss.
YOUR CHILD’S CONDITION IS NOT YOUR FAULT
Thinking things like, “I did something wrong
or what if I did this differently?”, is not helpful
to either you or your child. There are a million different things that can cause/affect impairment, and impairment can and does happen despite your best intentions.
THERE IS NO RIGHT WAY
Your child will do things differently. They will not do things the ‘right’ way but they will do their way. It is important to encourage, support and play.
IMPAIRMENT IDENTITY IS IMPORTANT
Having an impairment related identity can be crucial to reducing loneliness and isolation, understanding their condition and overcoming barriers. By smartly using online support and looking around locally, your child can own their own condition.
BREAK THINGS DOWN TO SMALLER STEPS
Having a disability is one big problem solving exercise. However, some problems can seem so BIG that there is no obvious solution. For these big problems, you need to work together with your child and break things down and to their fundamentals. Things like travelling can seem impossible but if you plan it properly, it can be easier than you think.
THE DIFFERENCE CAN BE SUPPORT, PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
Proper solutions to problems are often a mix of different things such as knowledge (knowing your rights), products (little things that can help) and proper planning.
Check our page for parents here.
Find more advice and information at: https://contact.org.uk/
