4 Team Players To Have On Your Side When You Have a Child With Special Needs

Many children have a diagnosis requiring more assistance or help, and parents may not know who to turn to or how to get what they need. This situation may make life more stressful for everyone, trying to figure out what you need, what your child requires and who to get everything to work together. There are people out there who could be beneficial to your family now and in the future. Reach out to the following four people to see if they could alleviate some of your troubles.

1. Medical Staff

Be sure that you are working with doctors who share your philosophies, operate under value-based healthcare models, and understand your plight. Each child is different, and it is useful for physicians to see the individual more than the diagnosis. In addition, focus on communication strategies and medical plans, not just in diagnosis but in the future. 

Create a team of doctors that know your child’s condition and are prepared to stick with you through the ups and downs.

2. Therapists

Depending on your child’s medical condition, you may require assistance from occupational, speech or behavior therapists. These professionals work with kids to improve their fine motor skills, interaction, communication and focus. Like your physician, seek out people who are deeply concerned about your child’s welfare and share similar beliefs with your medical goals. 

You might even need a psychiatrist to help discuss your feelings and the changing dynamics of the family.

3. Financial Planners

Reach out to professionals that work in special needs financial planning. If something should happen to you, having resources set aside is essential. This savings account could prove useful in providing continued services, setting up living appropriate conditions, and maintaining medical coverage. 

4. Exceptional Education Staff

The school system supplies students with an IEP, Individualized Education Plan when they meet requirements for a learning disability. This department services kids with more focus or one-on-one attention. Teachers typically have special degrees to understand alternate instructional methods suited for struggling learners.

Plan to meet annually to evaluate your kid’s case. Parents should approach this time with care, writing out any thoughts about the previous year, bringing doctor’s notes or reports and making a list of questions. Here you can consult about any concerns you see at home or in school and then work as a group to make things work better.

You are not alone. If you can, research people in your area who can help your child and you. Together, you may be able to find ways to make learning easier and improve overall daily success.