Tips for Parents

• Learn about developmental disabilities. The more you know, the more you can help yourself and your child. See the list of resources and organizations at the end of this publication.
   
• Encourage independence in your child. For example, help your child learn daily care skills, such as dressing, feeding him or herself, using the bathroom, and grooming.
   
• Give your child chores. Keep her age, attention span, and abilities in mind. Break down jobs into smaller steps. For example, if your child’s job is to set the table, first ask her to get the right number of napkins. Then have her put one at each family member’s place at the table. Do the same with the utensils, going one at a time. Tell her what to do, step by step, until the job is done. Demonstrate how to do the job. Help her when she needs assistance. Give your child frequent feedback. Praise your child when he or she does well. Build your child’s abilities.
   
• Find out what skills your child is learning at school. Find ways for your child to apply those skills at home. For example, if the teacher is going over a lesson about money, take your child to the supermarket with you. Help him count out the money to pay for your groceries. Help him to count the change.
   
• Find opportunities in your community for social activities, such as scouts, recreation center activities, sports, and so on. These will help your child build social skills as well as to have fun.
   
• Talk to parents whose children have developmental disabilities. Parents can share practical advice and emotional support. Call NICHCY (1. 800. 695. 0285) and ask how to find a parent group near you.
   
• Meet with the school and develop an educational plan to address your child’s needs. Keep in touch with your child’s teachers. Offer support. Find out how you can support your child’s school lessons, at home.