# data[].attributes.headline
video: parenting a child with a disability 

# data[].attributes.subject
video: parenting a child with a disability 

# data[].attributes.body
this video shows parents talking about their kids disability and the experiences.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Diagnosis: Parenting a Child with a Disability

# data[].attributes.body
This video shows how teachers work with special needs while using many essentials.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Supporting Students with Special Needs in Mathematics

# data[].attributes.body
On this website, provides for the education of children with special education needs through a number of support mechanisms depending on the child’s assessed disability.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Department of Education and Skills (DES) provides for the education of children with special education needs through a number of support mechanisms depending on the child's assessed disability.

Section 2 of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs (EPSEN) Act 2004 requires that:

"A child with special educational needs shall be educated in an inclusive environment with children who do not have such needs unless the nature or degree of those needs of the child is such that to do so would be inconsistent with:

The best interests of the child as determined in accordance with any assessment carried out under this Act

The effective provision of education for children with whom the child is to be educated."

In general, educational provision for children with special needs is made:

In special schools;

In special classes attached to ordinary schools;

In integrated settings in mainstream classes.

The nature and level of the educational response is based on the child's professionally-assessed disability. The Department's policy is to achieve as much integration as possible, as envisaged in Section 2 of the EPSEN Act. Where placement in an integrated setting is considered to be the appropriate response, provision will normally take the form of resource teaching or special needs assistant support, or both, depending on the pupil's assessed level of need.

While the DES' policy is to ensure the maximum possible integration of children with special needs into ordinary mainstream schools, students who have been assessed as having special educational needs have access to a range of special support services. The services range from special schools dedicated to particular disability groups, through special classes/units attached to ordinary schools, to placement on an integrated basis in ordinary schools with supports.

Children with more severe levels of disability may require placement in a special school or special class attached to a mainstream primary school. Each such facility is dedicated to a particular disability group and each operates at a specially reduced pupil teacher ratio. Pupils attending these facilities attract special rates of capitation funding and are entitled to avail of the special school transport service and the school bus escort service.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Department of Education and Skills (DES) provides for the education of children with special education needs through a number of support mechanisms depending on the child's assessed disability.

# data[].attributes.headline
Ways to communicate to children with special needs

# data[].attributes.subject
Ways to communicate to children with special needs

# data[].attributes.body
on this website, it shows you 11 ways to communicate with special kids by touch, music, art, movement and etc.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A special needs child is a broad term used to describe any child with a behavior or emotional disorder, physical disability, or learning disability. Sometimes a child may have more than one disability. Children with special needs children might require extra assistance in school. They might need medicine or therapy that typically developing children don't need. Many children with special needs are limited in verbal communication, or they are non-verbal. Communicating with children with special needs can be challenging.

1) Music

Music is understood by all people across the world. Music is especially effective in communicating with special needs children. Some children with special needs children are nonverbal, while others are very verbal. Music provides endless opportunities for learning and development.

For nonverbal children, music is a way to express themselves and interact with others without using words. Music can also be used to motivate children with special needs. During difficult situations, it might be helpful to sing a song in order to help your child work through it.

2) Touch

Tactile activities help children increase their fine motor skills, and they are a great way to communicate with children who are blind and/or deaf. Touch can help children build concepts as they link objects to experiences. Touch can also be used to teach children with special needs the fine motor skills they are often lacking. Giving them different textures to play with can help their bodies learn those skills.

3) Art

Art, like music, is a way for children with special needs to express themselves without using words. For children who are non-verbal or limited in verbal communication, it is a creative outlet. Children with special needs may become frustrated by their inability to complete tasks. With art, there is no way to fail. There is no right or wrong way to create pieces of art. Art projects also provide a great opportunity for children to touch different textures and work on their fine motor skills.

4) Movement

Movement helps children with special needs feel more engaged in learning. Movement increases focus, attention, and impulse control in children. Movement can also be a form of self-expression for children with special needs who have difficulty expressing themselves with words. Children can learn how to establish a connection between music and movement through dancing and increase their fine motor skills.

5) Social Stories

Social Stories, developed by Carol Gray, are visual or written guides to describe different situations which could include skills, social interactions, or behaviors. Social stories help children, especially autistic children, manage social situations. For those children who struggle with transitions during their day, creating a schedule using pictures can help them understand what activity is next on the schedule, making transitions easier.

6) Technology

Technology has provided a whole new way for children with special needs to communicate. Children who are nonverbal or have limits in verbal communication can type on iPads or use voice output devices. Devices such as iPads provide numerous apps to help children with special needs learn. Some apps can help children communicate by typing words or allow children to create sentences based on pictures. Other apps teach children how to engage in social settings.

7) Gestures

Using gestures is a non-verbal way to communicate to a child with special needs and can be very beneficial for children who have auditory challenges. For some children, they might not notice gestures, so make sure the child is paying attention before using them.

8) Motivators

Children respond well to encouragement and praise. This is no different for children with special needs. Giving small rewards can help children with special needs feel motivated to complete a difficult task or get through a challenging social situation.

9) Sign Language

Sign language, like gestures, is a way to communicate without using words. Sign language is not only for deaf and hard of hearing children. It can also be used for nonverbal children. Sign language is a way for children with special needs to communicate to others without feeling frustrated by their inability to use words.

10) Talk to Children with Special Needs The Same As Typically Developing Children

Some children with special needs have the same brain functionality as typically developing children, they just might not be able to communicate that. Talk to children with special needs the same as any other child. This may result in better responses from the child if they feel like you are treating them like other children their age.

11) Transition Time

Transitions can be a difficult time for children with special needs. Some children require ample time to transition into a new activity. Communicate these transitions clearly. Children may need to be told several times what activity is coming up next, or be given a 5 minute warning before the transition occurs. For others, social stories are helpful to make the transition process easier.

Communicating with children with special needs may take more time than communicating with typical children. Each child is different and requires different methods of communication. Children with special needs may require special medical attention that primary caregivers are unable to provide. UnityPoint at Home Pediatric Home Center is there for you when you need them. They provide specialized care for each child in the comfort of your own home. Learn more about UnityPoint at Home's Pediatric Home Center services for your child.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
11 Ways to Communicate to Children with Special Needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A special needs child is a broad term used to describe any child with a behavior or emotional disorder, physical disability, or learning disability. Sometimes a child may have more than one disability. Children with special needs children might require extra assistance in school. They might need medicine or therapy that typically developing children don't need.

# data[].attributes.headline
A letter to the sibling of a child with special needs

# data[].attributes.subject
A letter to the sibling of a child with special needs

# data[].attributes.body
This letter talks about how you should stay strong and support your sibling with special needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You're on my heart more than you know. I know sometimes you feel like your sibling gets all the attention and I don't notice you, but it's not true. Entire days go by that I ache because I am so tied up in dealing with the newest symptoms, medications, and endless consultations with specialists and therapists that I don't have time to sit down and talk with you, listen to you, like I really want to.

I see the tears you cry when a new set of symptoms means seeing another specialist, and we don't know how many times we'll have to travel to get to an appointment there, how many years we'll need check-ups with that particular specialty.

I see your frustration and sadness when you witness another meltdown, are told about another surgery, or have to endure your sibling being in the hospital yet again. I see your struggle to help out when you're asked to in situations where your dad and I aren't around and other adults ask you to step in when they don't know what to do.

Just let me say this:

You've had to take on far too many "adult" responsibilities and grow up way too fast already. I'm already wondering if you'll end up being the one responsible for your sibling after your daddy and I are gone, and how you will handle that. Please enjoy being a child and let me take the burdens I can remove from your shoulders. They're far too heavy for you. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: When something happens and adults turn to you, do immediate damage control and send them to get us. You are not responsible for handling the situation alone.

You are loved more than you can imagine.

I see you, I see your pain, and I see the sacrifices you make every day-to not rock the boat, to not cause us any trouble, and to help in every way possible. I love you for trying to be the "perfect" child and not cause your daddy and me more stress. Please see You're a child. above and know that we don't expect perfection. We don't expect you to be able to avert every meltdown. We love you exactly as you are, mistakes and all.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A Letter to the Sibling of a Child with Special Needs - Parenting Special Needs Magazine

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You're on my heart more than you know. I know sometimes you feel like your sibling gets all the attention and I don't notice you, but it's not true.

# data[].attributes.headline
5 ways to support siblings with special needs

# data[].attributes.subject
5 ways to support siblings with special needs

# data[].attributes.body
This website shares five different ways to support any sibling with a disability and make them feel equal and positive.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When Sophie Kleinhandler was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder at 8, one thing that meant a lot to her was the support of her sister Rachel.

"My older sister started worrying about me," Sophie recalled, "and she told me something really special. There's a song called 'Lean on Me,' and she said, 'Sophie, now that you have OCD I want you to lean on me when you're upset and you can't handle anything.'"

Rachel was a big help to Sophie, but Sophie's OCD was hard on Rachel, too.

Sophie would get very upset if she was touched without warning. If someone brushed against her clothing, she had to immediately take it off and wash it. She had an aversion to commonplace sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, or kissing. Certain words set her off as well.

For Rachel, Sophie's outbursts could be embarrassing. She didn't know how to explain her sister's behavior to her friends. It was also hard to concentrate on her homework or enjoy family vacations when her sister was slamming doors or melting down. Her parents spent a disproportionate amount of time on her sister, taking her to appointments and visiting when she was in a treatment center. And, of course, Rachel worried a lot about Sophie.

Siblings struggle too

"Rachel struggled emotionally," said Kleinhandler. "She held a lot in. Her intense worries and fears about Sophie took a toll emotionally and academically. She's very bright, but she went into a shell and really had a very difficult time sharing and expressing her emotions." By the time Rachel was 16, Kleinhandler decided she needed professional help, too.

Dr. Jill Emanuele, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, believes that more attention needs to be placed on how mental illness impacts the other children in a family. She points to the fact that when a child gets a physical illness like cancer, there are an abundance of support groups and therapeutic options for the siblings. With mental illness there are a lot less, despite the fact that psychiatric problems are far more common.

Related: Siblings Under Stress

When one child in a family has problems that consume a lot of attention, restrict family activities, or generate a lot of concern, other kids in the family may react very differently. "Some kids take care of themselves and persuade themselves that they don't need attention," said Dr. Emanuele. "Some start acting out and finding ways to get attention that might be negative. Some become big helpers and try to fix the problem for their parents. Some try to be extra good and avoid getting in the way. Some get angry."

Hungry for attention

The most immediate challenge for many siblings is that when mental illnesses arise, parents have to spend more time focusing on the child with issues. "The siblings aren't given as much attention, and they may not understand why," said Dr. Emanuele. 'Why are Mom and Dad always worrying about Peter? Why aren't they paying attention to me? What did I do?' "

Having to compete for parental attention can lead to resentment towards the parents or the sibling soaking up the attention. Even a protective and supportive sibling can get frustrated, and feel unable or unwilling to complain.

That's why Kleinhandler was proud of Rachel for finally articulating what she needed when she started applying for college. "We had a family conversation and she said, 'I'm a person too, and this junior year is stressful beyond belief, and it's hard, and I need Mommy-I need her help, I need her attention.' "

Here are five steps you can take to help children handle the challenges that come with having a sibling with special needs.

1. Talk openly about the situation

Dr. Emanuele says It's essential for parents to clearly explain what is going on to siblings and answer questions they may have. "Some siblings may not fully understand what is happening with their brother or sister. They may feel guilty about it, that they somehow caused it. Or they may feel like they aren't as important as their brother or sister because they don't get as much attention."

It's essential for parents to listen to concerns the other children may have, and reassure them that you love them. "Let them know, 'I hear you, I see you,' " she added.

Parents don't have to use formal jargon like ADHD or autism or OCD. But they need to describe the behavior that kids might find concerning, and make it clear that it isn't willful. Kleinhandler found it helpful to explain to her daughters that the disease was just like a bully pressuring their sister to do things she wouldn't otherwise.

Speaking in terms of strengths and weaknesses is often helpful, suggests David Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute. "One sibling might have difficulties with emotional dysregulation"-getting emotional or melting down when things don't go his way, he said. "But another might not be too good at basketball. So maybe your brother gives you a few extra shots in basketball, and he might need some slack because he has difficulty staying calm when you're playing board games."

It works for parents, he adds, because it avoids targeting the kid with special needs.

2. Spread the support around

When you have a child with special needs who needs a great deal of support and encouragement, the other children may feel that their achievements are taken for granted, they not getting as much praise as the struggling child.

So it's important, as Dr. Anderson puts it, to "spread the sunshine around." If you're, say, really trying to reinforce one sibling's behavior, instead of ignoring another sibling's bid for attention, look for something very soon afterwards that's positive about what that sibling is doing, and give him the same level of positive reinforcement."

3. Set aside time for the each child

All kids, especially those who have a brother or sister who takes a lot of attention, need one-on-one time with parents. It can be challenging to fit in, but even small amounts of time, on a regular basis, can help a child feel loved and valued, explains Mandi Sliverman, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute.

"Parents have to remember to give every sibling attention," noted Dr. Silverman, ""It may not be equal, but it has to be meaningful and consistent." She suggests spending 10 uninterrupted minutes with each child before he or she goes to sleep, reading or coloring or doing a puzzle together.

Liza Long, who has 5 children, including one with bipolar disorder, sets aside time for each of her children to have dates with her. They get to choose what they want to do, and it's something they look forward to. "I try to plan dedicated time with each of the kids because so much of our attention will go to my son with mental illness," Long said. "You have to be really sensitive to that."

4. Try to treat all children the same

Dr. Emanuele says she sometimes sees parents who have a child with special needs worrying that their other children aren't getting a "normal" upbringing. They feel guilty and as a result they may let them get away with bad behavior or have whatever they want.

"Sometimes parents will be permissive with the other kids because they feel bad," she said. "But these children still need to learn to be responsible for their decisions and their negative behavior, and that can't slide."

5. Look at the positive

Keep in mind that growing up with a special needs sibling teaches valuable skills and empathy, notes Dr. Silverman. "Sometimes children who have siblings with special needs have a level of compassion that makes them especially good friends, and they have a lot of friends, because they are patient and positive and understanding."

Long said her kids are unusually empathetic to kids who are struggling with emotional or behavioral issues.

"The experience has made them much more tolerant and kind, and they are more sensitive to mental illness," said Long. "My daughter, the youngest, came home from school the other day, and she said, 'I sat with the bully at lunch time. I decided to sit next to him, and we talked, and he has ADHD, and that's why he is a bully. He doesn't want to be one.' "

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
5 Ways to Support Siblings in Special Needs Families

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
When Sophie Kleinhandler was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder at 8, one thing that meant a lot to her was the support of her sister Rachel. "My older sister started worrying about me," Sophie recalled, "and she told me something really special.

# data[].attributes.headline
Book: Living with a Brother and Sister with special needs.

# data[].attributes.subject
Book: Living with a Brother and Sister with special needs.

# data[].attributes.body
This book focuses on the intensity of emotions that brothers and sisters experience when they have a sibling with special needs, and the hard questions they ask.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Living with a Brother or Sister with Special Needs focuses on the intensity of emotions that brothers and sisters experience when they have a sibling with special needs, and the hard questions they ask: What caused my sibling's disability? Could my own child have a disability as well? What will happen to my brother or sister if my parents die? Written for young readers, the book discusses specific disabilities in easy to understand terms. It talks about the good and not-so-good parts of having a brother or sister who has special needs, and offers suggestions for how to make life easier for everyone in the family.

The book is a wonderful resource, not just for siblings and their parents but also for teachers and other professionals who work with children with special needs. This revised and updated edition includes new sections on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, fetal alcohol syndrome, fragile X syndrome, traumatic brain injuries, ultrasound, speech therapy, recent legislation on disabilities, and an extensive bibliography.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Living with a Brother or Sister with Special Needs: A Book for Sibs|Paperback

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Living with a Brother or Sister with Special Needs focuses on the intensity of emotions that brothers and sisters experience when they have a sibling with special needs, and the hard questions they ask: What caused my sibling’s disability? Could my own child have a disability...

# data[].attributes.body
This book tips on how to talk to your parents about plans for your sibling that requires special needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Sibling Survival Guide - Whitby Public Library

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Sibling Survival Guide Indispensable Information for Brothers and Sisters of Adults With Disabilities (Book) : If you are a teenage or adult brother or sister of someone with a disability, then this book is expressly for you.

# data[].attributes.body
In this book, they share in their own words, whats it like to live with their siblings and they also provide some advice for parents with a child that has disability or illness.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Special Brothers and Sisters: Stories and Tips for Siblings of Children with a Disability or Serious Illness
A Review of this important book edited by Annette Hames, a consultant clinical psychologist and Monica McCaffery, director of Sibs organisation. Illustrated by Brendan McCaffrey.

As a Mum of two girls, the youngest of whom has Down's syndrome, I am always conscious of the impact Natty's additional needs will have on her elder sister. Most of the time when I look at how thoughtful and sensitive a ten year old she is, I think my early fears were unfounded. At other times I can see that Natty's behaviour can be a challenge for her, or that our worries and attentions are unfairly divided towards her sister through necessity. We try to take it in turns to take her out on special outings, or take part in craft activities with her alone, but I occasionally wonder if that is enough. So when I had the chance of reviewing a JKP book, I automatically chose a title about siblings to further my understanding of this issue.

Special Brothers and Sisters is a collection of accounts from 40 families with children ranging in age from 3 to 18 speaking openly and honestly about their experiences. It has been compiled for siblings, their parents and professionals working with the family and is the perfect balance of personal accounts with educational explanations of key conditions such as ADHD, cystic fibrosis or Down's syndrome, as well as tips and ideas to try at home.

The resource has been very well thought out. Children's concerns, worries and sometimes frustrations with their siblings are not sugar-coated in any way, but given respect and space. From embarrassment, staring, sleep disturbances, challenging behaviour, hospital stays, surgery, friendships and needing more attention, the book offers user-friendly ideas to work through these challenges, such as writing feelings down, talking to an adult or a range of calming activities to try with a sibling who may be experiencing sensory overload. These feelings are balanced perfectly with what the children love most about their family members, and what makes them proud.

I think it's certainly a book to read together with your child as it will act as a springboard for further discussion of their feelings and needs and will work towards enhancing family relationships as you get a deeper understanding of how they view their sibling with a disability. In fact, I would urge every parent to read it for themselves as it provides a very grounding insight into how siblings feel. I enjoyed reading some of the stories with our eldest daughter Mia. It prompted chats about how she feels about being a mini carer at times for her sister Natty.

For me, it was eye-opening to realise that even when we are feeling overwhelmed by caring, or our child's behaviour, some relatively simple and achievable steps can make a huge difference to family dynamics, such as explaining to school that a sibling has been woken at night and might be tired that day, or trying to organise a sleepover for that child, or simply drawing some silly faces that will make you all giggle. Parenting should be fun too!

The book also contains a comprehensive list of where to get additional support and help, including UK based sibling support organisation Sibs. There's a glossary of medical terms, a note to siblings and a separate one for parents.

This is an honest, compassionate book with a positive tone. It sends out a clear message that siblings of disabled children are not alone and are not being overlooked or forgotten.

Special Brothers and Sisters is published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers and is priced at £10.99 ISBN 9781843103837
Read our Disclosure Policy

Author: Hayley Goleniowska

Hayley Goleniowska is the author of the popular blog, Downs Side Up, where she writes about life with her daughters, one of whom has Downs Syndrome, and other issues surrounding disability.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Special Brothers and Sisters: A book review - Special Needs Jungle

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Special Brothers and Sisters: Stories and Tips for Siblings of Children with a Disability or Serious Illness A Review of this important book edited by Annette Hames, a consultant clinical psychologist and Monica McCaffery, director of Sibs organisation. Illustrated by Brendan McCaffrey.

# data[].attributes.body
This story shares the experiences of young sibling with disabilities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Free 4-5 day shipping within the U.S. when you order $25.00 of eligible items sold or fulfilled by Amazon.

Or get 3 day shipping on this item for $5.99 . (Prices may vary for AK and HI.)

Learn more about free shipping

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
views from our shoes: growing up with a brother or sister with special needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
developmentally disabled children - family relationships - united states

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
juvenile nonfiction / disabilities & special needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
sociology of the mentally and physically challenged

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
teaching of those with special educational needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Views from Our Shoes: Growing Up with a Brother or Sister with Special Needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In Views From Our Shoes, 45 siblings share their experiences as the brother or sister of someone with a disability. The children whose essays are featured here range from four to eighteen and are the siblings of youngsters with a variety of special needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, develop...