discipline

Three Ways to Help Your Special-Needs Child

by Bonnie Shepherd

  1. Find activities that fit his unique needs. Special Olympics is available in each state for those 8 years and older with mental retardation or significant learning problems that require special instruction. Check the phone book to find your local chapter.

    The Unified Sports program, working with Special Olympics, teams persons without mental retardation and persons with mental retardation of comparable age.

    Other opportunities for the special needs child and his family include:

    • JAF Ministries, the California-based disability outreach of Joni Eareckson Tada. Call: 818-707-5664.
    • Friendship Ventures
    • Boy Scouts of America (See if your local council offers a group for children with special needs.)
    • The Friends program coordinates with AWANA church youth groups to provide activities for special needs kids. If you can't find a Friends program in your area, ask your church about starting one.
  2. Find a partner who will encourage you and pray for you. The Bible is also full of encouragement for you and your child. To learn more, contact Moms in Touch
  3. Plan for your child's adult years. See if your child is eligible for Supplemental Security Income or Medicaid.

    In addition, call your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office to find out what rehabilitation services and adult job opportunities are available in your community.

    Ask the DSS for a list of group homes for adults with disabilities in your area. Some states have private Christian-based group homes. For more information from one well-run program, contact Shepherd's Home and School.

Copyright © 1998 Focus on the Family. This article first appeared in the July, 1998 issue of Single-Parent Family magazine.

Background Information

Journey of No Return
Sometimes as parents, we have a knee-jerk response to our kids as we're barraged by their numerous inquires and desires. Maybe it's time to stop being so negative.

When Not To Discipline
Parents should recognize when they should and shouldn't discipline their children.

When You Feel Like Calling in the SWAT Team
Are your children constantly testing you? This classic parenting advice will help you regain the upper hand.

Questions and Answers

After I spank my child, she usually wants to hug me and make up, but I continue to be cool to her for a few hours. Do you think that is right?
Answer

We'd like to be more unified in our approach, but how do we successfully move from two financial approaches to one?
Answer

How long do you think a child should be allowed to cry after being punished? Is there a limit?
Answer

I have never spanked my 3-year-old because I am afraid it will teach her to hit others and be a violent person. Do you think I am wrong?
Answer

It just seems barbaric to cause pain to a defenseless child. Is it healthy to spank him or her?
Answer

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Stories

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Other Things to Consider

Ten Things Toddlers Wish They Could Tell You
It can do wonders for the frazzled parent to know what's going on in the mind of your little one.

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Relationships: Parents and Adult Children, Blended Families