Nurturing with Actual Handicaps

 Key point 

• If you have a physical impairment as a parent, you and your family are probably adaptive and capable of overcoming difficulties in daily life.
• You can obtain assistance with routine parenting duties.
• Local services or the NDIS can provide you with assistance.
• Contact an NDIS local area coordinator or a disability advocate if you require assistance.

Being a parent with a physical disability: the rewards 

Being a parent of a child with disabilities has many benefits. These things often come from how the family and children react. 

For example, you may find that you are raising children who are kind and kind, who understand and pay attention to the needs of others, who are receptive and empathetic, who are mature, and who appreciate their health. They can also be responsible, independent, accountable, and interested. 

In addition, your family situation can increase your children's self-esteem. This is because they develop a sense of value by learning responsibility and understanding how much they contribute to family life. 

Being a parent with a physical disability: challenges 

Every family has challenges as their children grow and develop. However, parents with disabilities face unique challenges. 

Your physical disability may not be one of the main obstacles; maybe it's more than how others perceive it.

 

There may be weaknesses or limitations for you. For example, it may be easier for you to pick up your child with help or do some daily care, such as feeding and cleaning. Driving young people can be difficult if you are in a wheelchair. 

In addition, there are social and economic problems, such as finding a job or having access to resources that can help you give your children what they need to grow and develop.

 

Managing life as a parent with a physical disability 

If you have a physical disability, you often have a knack for finding creative and helpful solutions to your problems. 

When constantly interacting with your children, you prefer verbal guidance over physical instruction. There is no doubt that even your little ones know they will be safe if they follow your instructions and pay attention to you. Also, honest communication becomes increasingly important as your children grow in all areas of family life, including discipline.

 

It's a good idea to talk to your children about your disability first. This will make it easier for them to understand any health problems you may have, such as why you need a wheelchair or why you tire easily. Children adapt well to their environment, and your children will adjust their behavior to meet their needs and yours. 

Support for parents with physical disabilities 

You can get assistance with self care activities for parenting tasks like feeding, bathing, and dressing. The type of support you need depends on your disability, but many services, technologies, and assistive devices can help you in everyday family life. 

If you need assistance with self care activities in Australia, contact your local disability advocate or NDIS coordinator.

 

A disability advocate can help parents talk about what they want for their family. They can also help parents find and understand information about support and services.

 

A local NDIS coordinator (LAC) works with the NDIS. LAC groups can help parents understand how the NDIS works. They can also help parents find and use community support, services and programs, and other government services. You can also talk to your GP about local support services and health or disability specialists. This may include occupational therapists, who can give you ideas for adapting to your physical environment and needs.