Everyday life could post some challenges on the life of a child with cerebral palsy. There are different obstacles that children with cerebral palsy face. But as parents, the biggest fear would be how they would be able to make or provide the life of a child to their disabled children.
There are recent surveys and studies that showed that families with children that has cerebral palsy has experienced more closeness in their relationship. Not only do parents improve their understanding and ability to manage the disability, but they were also able to lengthen their patience and at the same time enable them to deal with self-confidence and anger management problems.
But it is not perfect. Most parents of children with cerebral palsy would say that they would encounter time management issues. There are also some issues on how they balance their time with their other children. Aside from that, parents would have to deal with high stress levels and fatigue, since they would not only be physically exhausted but emotionally as well.
To relieve family of this kind of negative effects, experts have come up with different methods. Experts agree that it would be important to acknowledge that parents are not alone and would have to deal with it alone. There are about 800,000 Americans, both adults and children, diagnosed with cerebral palsy. To help individuals with this kind of problem and their families, there are different organizations and agencies that are willing to refer families to doctors that would be able to help them.
There are also community support services that could help the children and their family. A community support service team would include a case manager, service provider, community support worker and of course, the child’s teacher and doctor. Some parents, who direly need a break, would often take advantage of community support services to take care of their children. These kinds of services are provided by state and federal funds. The good news is that families do not have to subsidize these services.
In addition to community support services, there are other support systems which could help you care for your child. They are those who have more experience and trained to help you and the entire family. For example, there are the United Cerebral Palsy Association and the March of Dimes.
Gaining support would not just be about talking to organizations and institutions. The closest support that a family of a child with cerebral palsy will be your friends and relatives. You could also coordinate with some activities with schools, communities and other family support programs.
Experts would recommend that parents encourage their children to be independent, even if it is in small steps. Small beginnings would mean big miracles for your child on the long run. Another thing that parents should be aware of is being an advocate for your kid. Of course, we know, how much your child means to you. But do not be afraid to express your opinions and questions to your child’s health care provider.
Given with proper management, children with cerebral palsy can deal with different challenges. There may be different treatment options that could help your child recover, but the most important thing would still be giving love and care. Parents just need to plan, be patient and be dedicated in implementing programs that they have planned with different organizations and health care professionals.
In the end, the child would still lead a meaningful and happy life.