by Ashley Smith

Created on: May 25, 2008   Last Updated: June 13, 2008

As a parent of two disabled children there are many tips i could offer.Firstly don't look for blame for the condition that is found,deal with the situation as you find it.Its not always in fact needed to have a definite diagnosis for the condition if you can deal with everything as it is.A diagnosis is only needed for administering medications or for specific treatment.

If the child has a special need then it should be at least investigated by specialists for basic advice.Also do your own work investigating through books and the Internet.Look for advice through parent groups and other support groups that may offer advice for you.
The next thing to consider is what you want to do for your child,for example do you want your child to attend a regular school or to attend a special needs environment.This would depend on the problems your child has and whether the problem would be limiting in a regular school.If its an educational special need then the school would have a say in what happens as they must decided on what happens for all pupils,a problem may occur if for example if your child needs a one to one helper.This would cost the school in question extra and could be a problem if funds have to be moved from something else.
Alot of what you do and how you cope is down to your attitude towards your child and how you wish to be seen.Many parents are embarrassed to be seen with their child if their behavior is bad or if they look disabled.The simple answer is to not care what anyone else thinks,to not get embarrassed by your family.The people staring might feel your embarrassment or may be upset by the noise or whatever happens its their problem not yours.
To summarize do some work yourself and then you may get help quicker and better because you are the expert on your child and you know what is best.

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