Children with mental handicaps often have physical disabilities that also must be addressed. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology, children with low intelligent quotients, or IQs, can successfully participate in family, school and community activities and learn to live somewhat independently. The federal government guarantees some level of educational opportunities for disabled children.
Step 1
Take your child to a specialist to determine the level of the disabilities. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology, children should be assessed by a number of doctors to determine the level of physical and mental handicaps you're dealing with. A team of pediatricians, neurologists, psychologists and counselors can then develop a plan for the child's education and care.
Step 2
Teach new skills and activities in small doses. Break up an activity into very small tasks and move on to additional lessons once the child has mastered the prior steps. For example, if you are teaching a child to make his bed, first show him how to plump the pillows and put them in place. Once that is accomplished independently, show him how to pull up the sheets and blankets. Finish the lesson with the spread and smoothing the entire bed down.
Step 3
Keep your focus on concrete instructions and communications. According to the University of Illinois Extension, children with mental handicaps have difficulty with concepts and abstract thoughts.
Step 4
Show a child how to perform a certain activity rather than telling him how to do it. Children with mental retardation learn best by watching and copying actions rather than by understanding concepts and instructions. Kids with impaired motor skills also should be shown how to manipulate their limbs.
Step 5
Allow your child to attend special education classes in your local public school. According to the Exceptional Television and Radio Center, since mentally challenged children are much slower in their development, they should be placed in separate classrooms where they will be with other children their age. At the same time, they can learn to associate with the general public and learn to navigate large spaces independently, such as the halls of the school, the cafeteria and playground.
Tips and Warnings
- Children with intellectual disabilities can try your patience. Remind yourself that you need to maintain your patience and take breaks when you feel you are becoming frustrated. Keep goals small and realistic. Celebrate small improvements and learning achievements.
- A mentally challenged child affects everyone in the family. According to Penn State Children's Hospital, you should provide professional counseling and guidance through self-help organizations for the whole family in order to maintain harmony and help everyone cope with the stress and challenges of working with a mentally handicapped child.
Things You'll Need
- Medical specialists
- Special education classes
