Pediatric Nursing Care Coral Gables FL
Parents of special needs children often struggle when it comes to involving their child in other child friendly activities. Whether you have recently enrolled your child in a program for special needs children, or you or the pediatric home care provider are simply planning on taking the child to an event, there are some things you can do before and during the event to ensure your child is safe, yet having fun.
Safety and Comfort First
Regardless of the “special needs” your child has, it is common for some activities to add a level of stress to the child. It will be well worth your time to take a few minutes and do what is necessary for your child to be comfortable at the event. For example, talk to your child about what the event is, what is going to happen, what they are expected to do and why they are participating in the event. If your child’s pediatric nursing care provider will be attending the event with your child, it is important to relay this information to the child as well as the home care provider. If your child has a comfort device, such as a favorite toy or a blanket, make sure it is available for them.
Previsit the Venue
Whether your child is attending a program at school or going to a sibling’s birthday party, it is essential that you visit the school or venue beforehand. Make sure there is accessibility for wheelchairs if necessary, or if an electrical outlet is available for devices such as feeding pumps or other medical equipment is needed. If your child is wheelchair bound, make sure to let the pediatric care provider know about any obstacles they may face, such as the location of the elevator and/or handicap accessible restrooms.
Handling the Curious
It is extremely important to keep in mind that children are naturally curious, so it is highly possible that the other children at the event will ask questions, such as “why your child is in a wheelchair?” Be prepared to answer the questions as fully and as honestly as possible, but on a level that children will understand. For example, if your child has a tracheotomy, the other children will typically ask “what is that in his neck?” They will not usually be aware of the technical term for the device, so be gentle in your answers. For example, instead of going into extreme detail, simply tell them that it helps him to breathe easier. If possible, any treatments or procedures that must be done while you are at the event, such as suctioning the trach, try to take the child to a different area. This will protect his privacy as well as prevent the risk of infections.
The most important thing to keep in mind when taking your special needs child to an event is to not over-protect. This may be one of the toughest things for you and/or the pediatric home care provider to do. It is possible for your child to enjoy the experience of an event and remain safe and comfortable. Prepare your child for the activity, but don’t prevent them from enjoying the experience.
