Every child is distinctive and how they progress and nurture is divergent to them. Caring for a child is a very rewarding and important job; however it is never simple, especially if the child has special needs.
The term special needs for children is used to describe which require assistance for infirmities that may be medical, psychological or mental. These include Autism, Down syndrome, dyslexia, sightlessness and cystic fibrosis.
It can be a very distressing time when a family finds out that their child has special needs, though in some cases the diagnosis is a relief as it can provide a framework for indulgent who the child is and why they may act in the ways they do. Parents and caregivers of special needs children may experience the complete array of emotions after being communicated that their child has special needs, from sadness, grief, shock, guilt or anger. Everyone copes differently and it must be remembered that each member of the family may go through the different emotions at different times. Patience is requisite by all.
Finding out a member of the family has special needs is hard on other children in the family. A child may not understand what is happening but they will see that something has changed, especially if the special needs child has a serious medical condition or does not look like other children. Siblings of special needs children should be reassured that they are not to blame. It is important to make time for all children in the family to ensure that they feel loved and cared for.
A child with special needs may have to visit the doctor more frequently than other children so it is important that you feel comfortable with the family doctor. Once your child has been diagnosed you may find they are put under the care of a specialist. A parent or legal guardian of a special needs child can ask for copies of any paper work relating to the child’s medical needs. Some special needs issues are complicated and a doctor may be required to explain the situation on a number of occasions to ensure that a parent has the correct information. It can be useful to write down any questions for the doctor to ensure they are remembered at the appointment.
A child with special needs may require hospital stays with pre-arrangements. Depending on the age of the child it may be beneficial to visit the ward for a tour before admission so the child can see where they will be staying, this can be organized by calling the hospital in advance. Prior to leaving hospital ensure that you understand what the child will require once home, including medication, checkup times etc.