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Psychiatrists help with acceptance and esteem issues.

LIFESTYLE CONSIDERATIONS

1. Family support is critical.
2. Create a loving and understanding home, where each person's value is openly applauded.
3. Don't dwell on your child's cleft; instead zero in on their strengths.
4. By your example, inspire relationships with people from varied backgrounds.
5. Point out attractive traits in others that do not include physical appearance.

6. Give your child the freedom to make decisions and gain confidence.
7. Be a good listener.
8. Provide the tools needed to respond to teasers.
9. Offer a healthy menu and physical exercise.

CLEFT LIP MINISTRY IN MOYOBAMBA

After seeing the unmet needs of the people in the jungles of Peru, Dr. Apolos Landa and a team of plastic surgeons have performed increasing numbers of cleft lip and cleft palate operations improving the future of many children. Much of this life changing work goes unpaid.

http://www.cleftnotes.o rg/ includes a list of support groups from around America.
http://www.widesmiles. org/ has a mailing list, picture gallery, kids area, and current information.
This site offers a free plastic surgeon referral service http://www1.plasticsurgery.org /ebusiness4/PatientConsumers/f indasurgeon.aspx
http://www.cle ftline.org/

Learn more about this author, Kathy Stemke.
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