Parent Resources

Happy Monday :0)
After my conversation with the mom of the family, I realized that she was very concerned with the oldest daughter and her moving on to junior high next year. I know the family is VERY proactive when it comes to what is best for their children. In fact, I thought it was interesting that the mother is the Hospitality Chairman for our local elementary school...wow! I think it says a lot to see this mother of four so insistent on making a difference, and as I mentioned in an earlier post, she definitely is doing a great job in helping teach children about showing hospitality both at school, and within the community. Anyhow, I wanted to find some parent resources for the parents of these young children to help them know what types of services and resources are available to them. I found a great website which talks about people of short statue in terms of it being, "Dwarfism." the website gives a lot of background information, but in focusing on the children, and providing resources for the older child, I thought this was helpful:

Helping Your Child Although types of dwarfism, and their severity and complications, vary from person to person, in general a child's life span is not affected by dwarfism. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act protects the rights of people with dwarfism, many members of the short-statured community don't feel that they have a disability. You can help your child with dwarfism lead the best life possible by building his or her sense of independence and self-esteem right from the start. Here are some tips to keep in mind: Treat your child according to his or her age, not size. If you expect a 6-year-old to clean up his or her room, don't make an exception simply because your child is small. Adapt to your child's limitations. Something as simple as a light switch extender can give a short-statured child a sense of independence around the house. Present your child's condition — both to your child and to others — as a difference rather than a hindrance. Your attitude and expectations can have a significant influence on your child's self-esteem. Learn to deal with people's reactions, whether it's simple curiosity or outright ignorance, without anger. Address questions or comments as directly as possible, then take a moment to point out something special about your child. If your child is with you, this approach shows that you notice all the other qualities that make him or her unique. It will also help prepare your child for dealing with these situations when you're not there. If your child is teased at school, don't overlook it. Talk to teachers and administrators to make sure your child is getting the support he or she needs. Encourage your child to find a hobby or activity to enjoy. If sports aren't going to be your child's forte, then maybe music, art, computers, writing, or photography will be. Finally, get involved with support associations like the Little People of America. Getting to know other people with dwarfism — both as peers and mentors — can show your child just how much he or she can achieve.
I am pretty sure the family is involved with different support groups, but I'm really not sure. As this website states, it is important for the child to come to terms with the situation, and maybe find a friend /mentor who can relate. It may be helpful to try to find a peer who may also be a little person who is also nervous about entering junior high. Maybe having the child keep a diary up to the start of junior high to look at what things may need to be addressed before the child begins her seventh grade year.

http://kidshealth.org/parent/growth/growth/dwarfism.html#

More information can be found at the above website.

For my next post, I'm hoping to have found some similar stories which may help the mom and the child with their anxiety, and the upcoming school year. Until next time, Live, laugh, love!