February 4, 2016 | By: Kelly Mastin
Categories: Family Support
It is difficult to think about the future of your child with a disability. Not knowing what the future holds makes any kind of forethought and planning seem daunting. Will they be happy? Will they be safe? Will they have what they need?
Thinking about the future is important. And preparation for the future is vital. Purposeful planning is especially important if your child has a disability. But where to start?
Person-Centered Planning is a powerful resource when it comes to planning. Person-centered thinking has revolutionized how families think about the future. As with most future planning, the Person-Centered Planning process will encourage you to think about your child’s health care needs. Health care needs include diet, medication, exercise, regular appointments, and other things that are important for your child.
However, it is just as important to consider what your child wants for their future. You will learn how to consider what they like, how to ask and notice what they like, and how to incorporate their desires into the plan. You will learn how to notice what is important to them. You will also learn to start taking steps toward the future that they really want.
A Person-Centered Planning workshop usually takes two days. It will help you think through and create a plan that honors your child. This will help to protect your child and their future. And it will help to ensure that your child has the things that make them happy and healthy.
The Institute for Person-Centered Practices offer classes periodically across the state. You can check their website for upcoming trainings. Check out our Find Services, Groups and Events page to search for events and services related to person-centered planning. Workshops on Person-Centered Planning take place at various times around the state, so check often!
Despite doubt from others, a parent’s careful attention to her son’s verbal and nonverbal cues highlights the importance of listening to children with disabilities and advocating for their needs.
Categories: Family Support
Having a child with autism adds some entertainment to our lives, especially if they are verbal. Sometimes, their words can make you laugh when you look back.
Categories: Family Support
Some kids just don’t like getting haircuts. Here are some tips for how you can help make haircuts for your child a better experience.
Categories: Family Support