Remember when you first found out that your child had special health care
needs and you wanted desperately to talk to another parent who had "been
there?" Sooner or later you will likely be the parent that someone else
comes to for advice and support. Here are some do's and don'ts:
Things to Do
- Let the family you are talking to direct the conversation. Encourage them
to express their concerns and questions.
- Be open-minded and accepting of their feelings and attitudes.
- Be a good listener
- Confidentiality is a must.
- Acknowledge and talk to and about the other children in the family
- Ask the parent how he or she is doing. Ask about the other parent and how
he or she is doing if they are not present.
- Act as a friend and share similar feelings, fears, apprehensions, etc.
- Boost morale and self-image, e.g. comment on positive steps they have
already taken.
- Tactfully relate your own positive experiences, but let them find their
own solutions.
- Inform them of support services related to their child's disability, but
don't immediately overload them with information.
- Encourage parents to take time out for themselves, with a view toward
balance in caring for and meeting the needs of all the family members.
Things Not to Do