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What is mental disability in children?
Mental disability is a condition in which the child’s mental development is not in accordance with their age. Due to this, they have problems in daily tasks, social skills and learning. This can be permanent, but with the right care and guidance at the right time, the child’s life can be made easier.
There are many types of mental disabilities – such as autism, Down syndrome, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, ADHD, or learning disorders. Every condition is different and every child’s needs are different. So the first step is to understand what kind of challenge your child is facing.
Why is it important to diagnose a child’s disability on time?
It is very important to diagnose mental disability in children on time, because if it is identified early, positive changes can be brought in their lives through therapy and proper treatment. Often parents or teachers identify it by noticing changes in the child’s behavior or problems in learning.
When the diagnosis is made on time, you get help in understanding which school, which therapy and what routine is necessary for the child. With the help of early intervention programs like speech therapy, occupational therapy and special education, the child shows improvements in his daily life.
What should be the home environment for the child?
The home environment is the biggest support system for a child struggling with mental disability. The home environment should be calm, positive and predictable. When the child is in his comfort zone, he responds better and learns new things.
There should be no changes in the routine of children. Every day the schedule should be the same, so that they do not get confused. They should be given proper time for every work – eating, studying, playing and therapy time should be fixed.
Their skill development can be done through small activities at home, like painting, puzzles, story telling and basic household tasks. These activities boost both their learning and confidence.
How to make children understand and how to listen to them?
Such children struggle a bit in communication. That is why it is most important to have patience while talking to them. Talking to them by looking into their eyes, using simple words and using gestures is very helpful.
When they do something wrong, try to make them understand instead of getting angry. It is important to help them understand and express their feelings. Appreciation for every small thing is a motivation for them.
Often these children are not able to express their emotions, due to which they get frustrated. In this way, explain to them lovingly how they can convey their thoughts to you – like through pictures, drawing or through basic signs.
What to pay attention to in schooling and education?
For such children, an inclusive education system or special education schools are best. Inclusive schools provide such children with an inclusive environment along with regular students in which they can develop both socially and academically.
In special schools, the curriculum is prepared according to their disability where trained teachers understand their special needs and work on their academic development.
While choosing a school, parents should keep in mind that therapy, counseling, and behavior support is available there. It is equally important to take regular feedback and progress reports.
Why is therapy and professional support necessary?
Therapies play a life-changing role for children struggling with mental disability. Speech therapy relieves their speech problems, occupational therapy helps them with motor skills and daily activities, and behavior therapy manages their emotional responses.
Apart from these, a child psychologist or counselor is also necessary for emotional and mental support of your child. Parents can also actively participate in the child’s progress plan along with these therapists.
Nowadays, online therapy is also a good option which is accessible from home. Parents should make the best use of these resources and should not hesitate in seeking professional help.
How do parents take care of themselves?
The mental disability of a child affects not only the child but the entire family – especially the parents. Parents face emotional pressure, guilt and stress, which is a natural response. Therefore, it is important to keep yourself emotionally strong and take care of your mental health.
Joining support groups, talking to other parents and sometimes taking professional counseling can also be a good step. Taking time out for yourself, living in small joys and focusing on self-care is equally important for parents.
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How to develop independence in children?
Despite having a mental disability, such children also have the potential to be independent. They can be gradually taught daily activities like brushing, eating on their own, putting on clothes. Every small success fills them with a new energy.
Encourage them as much as possible to do small things on their own. Even if they fail, give them a chance to repeat. Instead of helping them every time, guide them so that they learn to work on their own with confidence.
How to change the thinking of society?
There are still many myths and stereotypes in society about mental disability. People think that these children can never live a normal life or they do not have the ability to do anything. It is the responsibility of every person to change this thinking.
Parents and caregivers should educate themselves and also spread awareness among others. People should understand that these children also have a special gift by running awareness campaigns through schools, communities and digital platforms.
Only when the society accepts them as equal citizens can their life become better.
Quote From “Shane E. Bryan”
“I do not have a disability, I have a gift! Others may see it as a disability, but I see it as a challenge. This challenge is a gift because I have to become stronger to get around it, and smarter to figure out how to use it; others should be so lucky.”
Conclusion
Mental disability is definitely a challenge, but with the right approach, patience and love this challenge can be turned into an opportunity. Every child is special, it just needs to be understood and nurtured to find the talent hidden within. The role of parents is the most important in this journey. When there is love at home, support from society and professional guidance, then even a mentally disabled child can touch the sky in his life.
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