PSN Issue
PRECAUTIONS to take before
allowing anyone to care for your child
Parents
of autistic and/or special needs children are all very different. We come from
various backgrounds, live in different places, and even share different views.
But, we all have one thing in common.... the love for our children and the
desire to help them as much as we possibly can to make them happy, healthy and
independent.
I feel it is very important to network and connect with other parents to
educate myself and others. It is very important to be the best advocate
possible for your child. They don't have a voice, so YOU must be their voice.
We have just recently experienced a horrible situation of
"inappropriate" pictures taken of our child while attending a private
IBI/ABA center..
I would like to educate other parents with special needs children, and
typically developed children, what to look for when placing your child in
someone's care. This is especially important when they can't communicate or have
limited communication skills. I cannot change what has happened to us, but
maybe I can prevent someone else's child from this horrible experience.
I want to educate parents and caregivers what precautions one should take
before allowing anyone to care for your child. It should not matter if it is a
daycare, private therapy center or other places you take your child.
I have personally found out the
following:
1. Any records of incidents/investigations of Daycares and/or Private
facilities are kept at Children's Aid in your area. You can call and
inquire about any particular facility.
2. Always ask to see qualifications of person(s) working with your child
3. Check references yourself. Don't be afraid to make inquiries with the police
regarding records if need be.
4. Expect timely responses to concerns/questions.
5. Before committing yourself to any facility, ask to speak with other parents
or view the facility while it is running. Make an un-announced visit to get a
realistic view of how the center runs, the actual presence of senior
staff/directors.
6. Be involved and don't take a kind smile as proof your child is well taken
care of.
7. If you can view your child under someone else's care do it.
8. Look for sudden changes in behavior with your child. YOU know your child
best.
9. Read over contracts carefully and don't be afraid to question. Do not
blindly sign anything without fully understanding.
SHARE INFORMATION & NETWORK WITH
OTHER PARENTS.
Many parents
of children who are "newly" diagnosed with autism/special needs are
not aware of precautions or even places to call to research centers. I depended
on "word of mouth", or a "well put together" website to research.
I had no idea in my area, for example, one could call Children's Aid to inquire
if any investigations or reports had occurred at any private IBI/ABA facility
or daycare?
Any way to
prevent and/or educate other parents would bring some closure to our occurrence
and justice to this situation. I'd hate to see any other child/family
experience this sort of situation.
Sincerely,
The "Voice" of my Child
Disclaimer: All information on this site is of a general nature and is furnished for knowledge and understanding only.