Children who have intellectual disabilities, otherwise known as children who are mentally retarded, may have "considerable problems in everyday functioning," says the American Academy of Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry. Some children with intellectual disabilities are able to attend school and participate in social activities, while others may require around-the-clock supervision and specialized mental health and occupational therapy. To help parents with children who have intellectual disabilities, begin by talking to them about their child's specific condition and needs.
Step 1
Learn about the nature of intellectual disabilities. Children with intellectual disabilities may become frustrated easily, have difficulty following directions and be unable to communicate their feelings and needs verbally. Read about the common issues surrounding children with intellectual disabilities and talk to special education teachers, counselors and parents to learn about the ways that the condition can manifest itself. The more you know about the child's condition, the better you will be able to help the parents.
Step 2
Offer to care for the child to give the parents some non-caregiving time. Caring for an intellectually disabled child can be time-consuming, leaving little time for parents to address their own needs and interests. The Help Guide website suggests that parents of children with intellectual disabilities delegate some of the day-to-day care of their child to others. Once you understand the needs of mentally retarded children, offer childcare services to the parents.
Step 3
Help the parents find the resources they need to care for their child. With occupational therapy, mental health counseling and one-on-one tutoring, children with intellectual disabilities can achieve a greater level of independence. To help parents with children who are mentally retarded, help them research these services.
Step 4
Advocate for people with intellectual disabilities. In addition to working directly with parents of children who are mentally retarded, contact mental health and disability advocacy groups in your community. These groups often work to dispel myths about intellectual disabilities, promote legislation and research to help children with mental retardation, and fund schools and clinics that provide families with affordable services. Volunteering with these groups can help you make a difference in the lives of many parents and their children.
