It can be really hard for parents when they find out that their child might have a problem with their development. They might worry about what their child’s future will be like, and if they will be able to do things on their own. But parents are really important in helping their child grow and learn new things. Even if their child is already getting help, there are still some things that parents can do at home to help their child get better.
How can you help a child with developmental delays at home?
1. Create a structured routine:
Children with developmental delays benefit from a structured routine that is consistent and predictable. This routine can help them feel safe and secure, which can reduce anxiety and stress. Establish regular mealtimes, nap times, and bedtime, and try to keep the daily schedule consistent.
2. Use visual aids:
Many children with developmental delays are visual learners. Visual aids such as pictures, charts, and diagrams can help your child understand instructions and routines. Use visual aids to help your child learn new skills, follow a routine, and communicate their needs.
3. Encourage playtime:
Play is an essential part of a child’s development. Encourage your child to play with age-appropriate toys, games, and activities that promote fine and gross motor skills, cognitive development, and socialization. Use playtime to help your child practice new skills, such as counting, sorting, and problem-solving.
4. Practice daily living skills:
Daily living skills such as dressing, feeding, and grooming can be challenging for children with developmental delays. Help your child practice these skills by breaking them down into smaller steps and using visual aids. Encourage your child to practice these skills independently and provide positive reinforcement when they succeed.
5. Read books together:
Reading is an excellent way to help your child develop language and communication skills. Read books together and encourage your child to ask questions and participate in the story. Use books to teach your child about different concepts such as colors, shapes, and emotions.
6. Provide opportunities for socialization:
Children with developmental delays may struggle with socializing and making friends. Provide opportunities for your child to socialize with peers, such as playdates, social groups, and extracurricular activities. Use socialization opportunities to teach your child social skills, such as taking turns, sharing, and communication.
7. Celebrate successes:
Celebrate your child’s successes, no matter how small they may be. Positive reinforcement can help motivate your child to continue practicing and learning new skills. Celebrate achievements such as taking a first step, saying a new word, or completing a task independently.
8. Take care of yourself:
It’s important for you to take care of yourself as well, both physically and mentally. This is because if you’re healthy and happy, it will be easier for you to take care of others, including your child. Eating healthy food, exercising, and getting enough sleep are all really important. It’s also helpful to talk to other people, either in person, on the phone, or online, because it can make you feel less stressed and less alone. Support groups for families can be a good way to meet other parents who have children with developmental disabilities.
Your child is the most important thing. Even if your child’s development is different from other children, this does not make them any less important or in need of your love and care. Love your child and enjoy spending time with them. Remember that your child is more important than their disability. If you focus on taking small, positive steps to help your child, you will do your best and your child will benefit. You can look forward to a good future together.
Let us help make a real difference for you and your child!
Nurture Pods is an intervention centre that works with children with special needs from the age of 3 to 12 years. Our focus is on providing individualized intervention programs catering to different needs of the children at home and in school. The objective of Nurture Pods is to utilize evidence-based best practices to provide special needs children with holistic, comprehensive and effective intervention programs so that they can achieve development to their best ability.
Written by: Alex Liau
Published on 11 July 2023
