How to Develop the Skills and Abilities of Children With Disabilities
- 1). Learn about your child's disability. Whether your child has physical or mental limitations, it is important to find out the facts. When you make an appointment with your child's physician, make a list of questions to ask him. You can find additional information online or through books about your child's disability.
- 2). Provide emotional support for your child without showing pity. According to the National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities, pitying your disabled child can lower his self-esteem. Praise your child for the tasks he is able to accomplish.
- 3). Encourage your child to complete certain tasks on her own. For example, if she can successfully wash the dishes without your help, don't interfere. Kids Health notes that disabled children often need help with tasks, but also benefit from being given achievable tasks they can complete on their own.
- 4). Identify your child's learning style. While some children are visual learners, others learn better by doing. Pay attention to how your child successfully retains information. Once you figure out her learning style, encourage her teacher to reinforce this type of learning in the classroom.
- 5). Teach your child how to make some of his own decisions. Begin by encouraging him to make small choices, such as picking out his clothes for the day or choosing what to eat for dinner. Once your child has made a decision, ask him if the outcome was what he expected. If he expected a different outcome, discuss how he can make a better decision next time.
- 6). Help your child set realistic goals. Write down the goals he wants to achieve, such as improving his grade in science or learning how to ride a bike, on a chart. Talk to him about sticking to his commitment, and not giving up when he faces a challenge. Discuss goals you previously achieved and how you handled obstacles. When he achieves his goal, praise him for his efforts.
Source...