For Parents of Newly Diagnosed Children
If I Need Help has asked our friends who have adult children with special needs to share with us “3 things I wish I knew when my child was first diagnosed that I know now” Todays contribution is from Debra Muzikar with important recommendations for Parents of Newly Diagnosed Children. I Need Help makes wearable iD and offers a free Caregiver controlled special needs registry for our loved ones who may wander or need assistance in a critical moment.
Three Recommendations for Parents of Newly Diagnosed Children
By Debra Muzikar, mom to three Children, Kevin has autism, and co-founder of the Art of Autism nonprofit. www.artautism.com
Join a Support Group
Other parents, especially parents who have shared a similar journey, can give you emotional support and insights into navigating systems that are complex. I joined a therapeutic parent support group when Kevin was only 3 years old. I learned so much from an older mom whose son was 8 years older than Kevin.
Practice Gratitude
Through your child a new world will open with many new people and situations you’d never think you would experience. This can be a gift and is certainly an incredible journey. Many people who have come into my life because of Kevin (therapists, educators, other parents, and paraprofessionals) have become life-long friends. Kevin’s diagnosis has made me a much more compassionate and better person.
Protect Your Child’s Privacy
Many school districts and governmental agencies may ask you to sign HIPAA forms. Don’t do it! I made a critical mistake in signing a form that I should not have and the school district used the information against Kevin. Also, don’t post embarrassing things on Facebook and Social Media about your child without their permission.
