It isn't easy to accept that your child has special needs you can't meet. It's even more difficult when you can't locate help. The medical, educational and social service industries are complex and not always user-friendly--and navigating through the maze can be frustrating. Assembling a team to address the issue can ease the burden on families and help ensure better outcomes for kids.
Finding Help for Your Child
Step 1
Write down your child's history--including details on development, relative conditions and challenges. If available, review old notes and documents from medical and education professionals, along with those from social services or other involved parties. Become familiar with the terminology and acronyms that are used. Research conditions your child has or may have. Once you've compiled your information, keep it in a binder so that it's easily accessible and convenient to take to appointments and meetings.
Step 2
Keep a journal about your child and describe any health or behavior problems. Note any changes you see as well. Be sure to include any precipitating factors, along with any interventions and their effectiveness. Store this log in the binder with the other information you've compiled.
Step 3
Review the information you've gathered and identify areas of concern. Write out any questions, problems and needs that you would like to see addressed. Keep this list in your binder as well.
Step 4
Schedule an appointment with your child's pediatrician. If your child doesn't have a regular doctor, now is the time to find a qualified pediatrician to oversee your child's care. A search tool is provided by healthychildren.org to help families locate board certified pediatricians. Once you've obtained a list of providers near you, call their offices, ask questions about their practice and request an informational brochure. Use this information to determine which practitioner best fits your child's needs, then schedule an appointment.
Step 5
Take the binder of information with you to the appointment. While there probably won't be time for an in-depth review of all information, you may need it to help answer questions. Focus on the list of identified concerns. Once you've shared the list, ask for suggestions and possible referrals.
Step 6
Ask the office staff at the pediatrician's office about the availability of a social worker to assist you--particularly if you're concerned about the cost of care for your child. While state programs vary, both medical social workers and those at the local Department of Human Services should be knowledgeable about the assistance your state provides.
Step 7
Visit with your child's teacher, explain your situation and ask for additional insight. Schools may be able to provide specific services such as counseling. School personnel might also know about local resources and programs that could help your child.
Step 8
Call referrals promptly. Continue keeping notes and record the effectiveness or lack of effectiveness of the care your child receives. If you're not satisfied with the results, return to your pediatrician for further guidance.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't be afraid to shop around when it comes to care providers. While it's important to respect the time constraints of care providers, it's equally as important that care providers listen and address concerns promptly. Gather contact information from any professionals involved in your child's care. Road blocks are common, but don't let them deter you. Instead, discuss these obstacles with your child's pediatrician, school and social worker. Pressing through challenges will ensure your child gets the help he needs.
Things You'll Need
- Binder
- Notebook
- Pen or pencil
