Types and Characteristics Disabled Children Types and Characteristics

Children With Disabilities Disability—if their development or abilities are far below average in one or more areas The attitude of parents toward a child with a disability shapes that child’s future

Physical Disabilities Seek a complete diagnosis as you as you suspect a physical disability Early diagnosis and treatment help children reach their potential Keys to helping them learn independence: special exercises. Special equipment, understanding, and patience. Self-care skills are necessary to independence: eating, dressing, bathing, and using the toilet

Mental Disabilities Mental disability refers to limitations in the way a person’s mind functions

Mental Disabilities Diagnoses can be done early but is unsure Early intervention is best Children with mental disabilities learn and respond best when they know what to expect Directions should be simple and direct Show the child what to do and repeat the directions many times

Mental Disabilities The goal is to help them become as independent as possible Being accepted by others is also very important

Autism Wide range of behavior Tend to be focused on one thing to the exclusion of others Treatment = individual attention, small groups, patience

Learning Disabilities A limitation in the way a person’s brain sorts and uses information A specific limitation in acquiring certain types of information

Dyslexia A disability with reading, often sees letters or words in an order than they actually appear 1st step diagnosis, ideally before school Work with a specialist, treat or learn to compensate

ADHD Less able to focus on an activity for a long period of time, they are easily distracted by other people and activities A lifelong condition that cannot be cured, but can be treated For effective treatment both medication and structure (behavior training)

Emotional Disabilities When a child’s behavior prevents typical development or disturb the lives of family members Usually becomes more noticeable and disturbing over time. Parents may feel ashamed to ask for help

Emotional Disabilities Behavioral Therapist—a professional trained in helping people work through emotional problems. Choose a therapist you can trust and feel comfortable with Treatment= spend individual time with the child, or introduce the child to a special activity such as gymnastics or music.

Raising a child with disabilities Guilt Sadness Anger Frustration

Raising a child with disabilities As much as possible parents should treat them just like any other children—especially in love and discipline

Raising a child with disabilities Nondisabled children may feel resentful when the family makes special arrangements for the disabled child

Raising a child with disabilities What parents can do: explain nature of disability Balance needs of all children

Raising a child with disabilities Support groups—gather for comfort, advice, and solutions to everyday problems. Keep parents up to date on research and treatment options.

Raising a child with disabilities Also help parents find tools to meet the emotional needs of their children. Giving the children inner strength, patience, courage, they need to cope with the disabilities