Enjoying Life With A Special Needs Child?

Answer 1

Managing the daily life of a child with special needs can be a challenge for any parent. Children with special needs may require more attention than other children. They may need assistance going to the restroom and completing simple tasks that other children take for granted. Caring for such a child can be exhausting. Keep the following tips in mind when caring for a special needs child. Every parent should be able to enjoy a happy, fulfilling life with his or her children.

Keep a set schedule. Keeping a schedule benefits all children and is particularly important if you are managing a child with special needs. A schedule allows your child to anticipate what activities will happen at what time of the day. Try making a visual representation of the schedule, with pictures of activities next to the time at which they will be done. Brushing teeth, using the restroom, eating and cleaning up should all be included on the schedule.

Establish clear boundaries. All children need clear boundaries. A special needs child may need to have these boundaries reinforced visually as well as verbally. If you would like your child to stay in a certain area of your living room during play time, place brightly colored masking tape on the floor to ensure that your child can see their boundaries. You can also use miniature traffic cones to set boundaries. Avoid using string or tape, as children may become tangled in such materials.

Become actively involved in your child's education. If your special needs child is old enough to go to school, be sure to become acquainted with his or her teacher. Stay apprised of what your child is learning in school so that you can review and repeat lessons at home. Be sure to ask your child's teacher about specific classroom rules. It will be helpful if you can enforce the same general rules while at home.

Empower your child to complete tasks. Some special needs children suffer from physical restrictions that prevent them from completing simple tasks, such as dressing themselves or tying their shoes. These children rely upon the help of their parents and siblings. If your child is capable of completing such tasks, encourage him or her to do them. Make your child feel like he or she is able to complete these important daily activities. By allowing your child a bit of independence, you make his or her life--and your own--all the more enjoyable.