The Importance of Laughter When Teaching Children With Special Needs

Tamara GuoChild Development, Parenting a Child with Special Needs, Special Needs Diagnoses

In working with children with special needs and their families for nearly 18 years, I can honestly say that the old cliche “laughter is the best medicine” rings true. Being a teacher, therapist, caregiver or parent of a child with special needs is certainly stressful at times, but it also brings many joys and special pleasures each and every day. …

The Importance of Inclusion and Community for Children With Special Needs

CME WebsitesChild Development, Parenting a Child with Special Needs, Special Needs Diagnoses

When most people think about inclusion they think about children with disabilities being included in the typical classrooms within their schools.  But inclusion should extend beyond the classroom and into the community.  Parents may be hesitant to enroll their child with special needs in a typical recreation program for fear he or she will not be able to fully participate …

Promoting Friendship for Children with Special Needs

CME WebsitesChild Development, Parenting a Child with Special Needs, Special Needs Diagnoses

Friendship plays an important role in everyone’s life.  When one has no friends life spans are significantly reduced.  Experts agree that friendship is not a luxury, it is essential to life.  Despite this fact, the social networks of friends and intimate relationships for children with disabilities are often smaller than are the social networks of children without disabilities.  Children with …

Creating a Circle of Support for Parents of Children with Special Needs

CME WebsitesChild Development, Parenting a Child with Special Needs, Special Needs Diagnoses

As a mom to a nine year old daughter with multiple physical, cognitive and life-threatening medical needs, I feel like I have been through it all.  But as I spend more time with other parents of children with special needs, I know I haven’t.  Every experience, every child and every family is unique, which is why I am hesitant to …

Q&A: How Much Therapy Should My Child with Down Syndrome Receive?

CME WebsitesChild Development, Parenting a Child with Special Needs, Special Needs Diagnoses

I have a 12 month old little girl with Down Syndrome. We participate in an early intervention program. Currently, she receives 2.5 hours a week of PT,OT, and developmental and 1.5 hour a week of speech. My question is two fold: First, how do you know if your child is receiving good quality therapy, and second, how much therapy should …

How to Potty Train Your Child With Special Needs

CME WebsitesChild Development, Parenting a Child with Special Needs, Special Needs Diagnoses

If your child is diagnosed with autism, Down Syndrome, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, or other condition of developmental delay, it may be more difficult to train him or her to use a toilet. Signs Your Child with Special Needs is Ready for Potty Training While most children between 18 months and 3 years of age are ready to learn to …