Parent Tips

There are doctors that really want to help you find answers.

There are other parents just like you who are dedicated to doing whatever it takes to give their children what they need.

What you can do to assure the best for your child:

Track your child's speech and movement development. Click here for our easy-to-use chart. Take this with you to your child's doctor.

Parents, trust your instincts. They are more powerful than you think.

Time is VITALLY important! Therapy can begin as early as three months of age.

Don't wait! Once you sense a concern, SEEK THE HELP of a medical professional. If you are not comfortable with the first opinion you receive, seek a second.

Don't settle for a doctor's answer of "wait and see". Click here to learn how to avoid this.

Take notes! A lot of information will be given to you and you'll need to be able to recall all of it.

Keep a log of your child's movement and feeding patterns. Take this with you to the doctor.

Research/read and learn all you can in order to be armed with questions.

Ask for help and express your feelings to your spouse, parents, friends, and neighbors.

Want to share a great tip you have learned? Submit here!

From Ideallives.com

Talk to your baby. It is soothing to hear your voice.

When your baby makes sounds, answer him by repeating and adding words. This will help him learn to use language.

Read to your baby. This helps her develop and understand language and sounds.

Sing to your baby.

Play music. This helps your baby develop a love for music and math.

Praise your baby and give him lots of loving attention.

Spend time cuddling and holding your baby. This helps her feel cared for and secure.

The best time to play with your baby is when he’s alert and relaxed. Watch your baby closely for signs of being tired or fussy so that you can take a break.

Parenting can be hard work! Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is easier to enjoy your new baby and be a positive, loving parent when you are feeling good yourself.

Where to Buy:

kidABILITY
A special place for your special needs. Web site devoted to selling special products including books, clothing, computer products, daily living aids, and toys and games.

JESANA Ltd.
Products and toys for children with special needs. Call (800) 443-4728 or (914) 376-2894 to receive a Jesana catalog.

Magical Innovations
We believe all children deserve joy and laughter—regardless of their limitations. By designing, manufacturing, and distributing incredible toys, we’re empowering children to feel whole, competent, complete, and honored.

Toys R Us World-Wide Web Site
Request their catalog, "The Toy Guide For Differently-Abled Kids"
For individual assistance on toys and play things for differently-abled children you can call LEKOTEK Toy Resources Help Line at (800) 366-PLAY or write the National Lekotek Center 2100 Ridge Avenue Evanston, Illinois 60201

Exceptional Parent Magazine
Online, a part of the Family Education Network Web Site
Subscribe to Exceptional Parent Magazine Online or by calling (800) 247-8080