How to Help Kids Deal With Disabilities

According to The National Information Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHY), nearly three million children in America have a learning disability, accounting for nearly half of all people with disabilities. These kids often feel out of place knowing they are different from their peers, but many are unaware of how or why they are different, making them susceptible to depression and behavioral disorders when compound the problem. Without adult intervention, children may develop low self confidence and self esteem, making it even more difficult to fit in with their peers. Fortunately, with proper intervention and education, many children with disabilities are able to learn strategies for overcoming their limitations.

Instructions

• 1

  Educate the child about his specific disability. Select age-appropriate books that address the concerns the child is likely to face. Young children benefit from picture books or stories about another child with similar traits. Older children can explore more details about their diagnosis. Check with your local disabilities council (most states have one) for recommendations for books and videos that appropriate for your child. Many have lending libraries filled with wonderful resources. Your local library may have resources as well. Review the list of recommended literature from NICHY (see Resources section below).

• 2

  Teach strategies for overcoming difficulties. A child with a learning disability or attention deficit disorder will benefit from instruction in time management, organizational skills and learning to break tasks down into manageable sections. Provide those with physical disabilities with adaptive technology to manage their condition.

• 3

  Provide social skill instruction. Many children with disabilities develop difficulties with social skills and benefit from age appropriate activities that teach proper social skills. Improving social skills assists the child in forming relationships with his peers and in turn builds confidence. Many schools offer social skills groups facilitated by a trained professional. Take advantage of these services.

• 4

  Teach the child to manage her own behavior. Begin with a behavior chart to monitor behavior. Involve the child in assessing her behavior for the day. Gradually shift the responsibility of monitoring the behavior to the child by allowing her to take over the chart when she is ready.

• 5

  Emphasize the positive. Help the child identify his strengths and to find activities that use those strengths. A child with excellent short term memory skills will excel at games that require recall. Other children may be athletically, artistically or musically talented. Focus on building these skills and find opportunities for the child to shine.

• 6

  Consider summer camps designed for children with disabilities. It is often rewarding for a child with a disability to interact with others who experience some of the same difficulties. This gives her the opportunity to discuss her frustrations with others who understand her. Check with your state's disability council for a listing of summer camps in your area. Most provide adequate staff to address the special needs of their campers.

• 7

  Express your appreciation for the child for who he is and make sure he knows that he is more than his disability. Keep the focus on what he can and does do well to build his confidence.