There is nothing more joyful and challenging than raising a child with a disability. But how do you help your disabled child?
Whether the disability is cognitive, intellectual or physical, as a parent you’re going to feel overwhelmed at times.
It’s not easy because nobody envisions raising a child with a disability. They envision a healthy child that they’re going to have by their side.
However, you are your child’s greatest advocate, their biggest support system, and their cheerleader.
Which means that while you don’t have to do everything perfectly, you have to do everything.
Taking a deep breath before you go ahead and start wondering how you can be there better for your child is important.
So let’s do that now.
Showing up with love, patience and the willingness to learn along the way is going to make all the difference to your child and the way that you raise them.
There are lots of things that you can do to help your child to thrive and live as normal a life as possible, as well as gaining some confidence in yourself in that process.
- Do some research. There will be medical terms to learn, therapies to engage with, school systems to consider, support services to lean on. And it’s OK to feel overwhelmed.
- Go slowly. Taking everything step by step is exactly how you get through it. You may need to do some research into life care planning so that you know how your child’s going to grow and thrive. Try not to get lost in the information because this is a marathon and it’s not a sprint.
- Celebrate your child for who they are. Everybody envisions themselves having a healthy baby at birth, and that’s not always the case, but that doesn’t make your child less than. They are a whole person with a personality, potential and preferences. Celebrate what they can do rather than lament what they can’t. Focusing on their strengths can build their self-esteem and your confidence as a parent.
- Build a support team. Raising a disabled child is not easy, and you’re going to have a lot of opportunities for support. Connecting with therapists, doctors, teachers and parent support groups who are in the same position can make a difference. Whether the support is impersonal or online, just hearing “I understand” can help.
- Be confident about being their advocate. Whether it’s a school meeting or a medical appointment, speak up and ask questions. Push for what your child needs. Your involvement will open doors and lead to opportunities and services.
- Prioritise life care planning. It’s one of the most powerful steps for your child’s future. It covers medical needs, therapies, education, financial support, and living arrangements. It helps reduce uncertainty and gives peace of mind. Start small and build your plan over time.
- Encourage their independence. Independence looks different for every child, but it builds confidence, resilience and pride.
- Don’t feel guilty for taking a break. Caring for a child with disabilities can be intense. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care helps you stay strong.
- Implement routines that work. Consistency is calming, and routines help everyone feel safe.
- Celebrate every milestone. Every step forward is worth recognition.
Summary
Raising a child with disabilities involves navigating medical terms, therapies, school systems, and support services, which can feel overwhelming.
It’s important to take things step by step, focusing on life care planning to ensure your child’s growth and well-being.
Celebrate your child’s unique strengths and personality, and build their self-esteem by focusing on what they can do.
Establish a support network with therapists, doctors, teachers, and parent groups to share experiences and advice.
Be proactive in advocating for your child’s needs in educational and medical settings.
Prioritize life care planning to address medical, educational, and financial needs, reducing uncertainty for the future.
Encourage your child’s independence to build their confidence and resilience.
Remember to take breaks for self-care, as it is essential for maintaining your strength. Implement consistent routines to provide a sense of safety and celebrate every milestone your child achieves.