Help Prepare Your Child Emotionally for Life

Question: How do I prepare my child emotionally for the future?

Answer: A child with special needs will go through the same emotional stages as other children. It is important to develop strong family bonds. Strong bonds provide stability, influence, and support and help build trust among family members.

Extended family and other caregivers are also important in your child’s development as he/she builds a sense of self for the future. These relationships help build strong communication and social skills and help develop a sense of independence.

Allow your child to try new tasks, participate in decisions, make decisions, and be exposed to new experiences. These build a strong foundation for the future. Allow your child to make mistakes and be there for support.

Healthy emotions also include asking for help. We all need help from time to time. Teach your child how and when to ask for help. Knowing how and when to ask for help will be important as your child moves through life.

Helping children prepare for life is something that requires work and effort. Everyone wants their children to be strong and successful. Maintaining close relationships and open communication helps parents ensure their children are well-prepared for the future.

DISCLAIMER: The contents of the Ask the Nurse column (“Column”) such as text, medical information, graphics, images and any and all other material contained in the column (“Content”) are for informational purposes only.  The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your (or your child’s) physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY IN SEEKING CARE BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU (OR YOUR CHILD) HAVE READ IN ANY MEDICAL LITERATURE!

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This post originally appeared on our January/February 2013 Magazine