Children with special needs
A year ago if someone asked me what it meant to be a child with special needs I probably would have thought it was a politically correct label for a child with down syndrome. I didn't know. It simply wasn't something that impacted me at that time in my life. Today, I am all too aware of this term and its various meanings. I am not a fan of labels - but it seems to be a medically acceptable definition that is applied to children with an array of issues. But don't trust me - I've lifted this definition from Terri Mauro, About.com Guide:
"Special Needs" is an umbrella underneath which a staggering array of diagnoses can be wedged. Children with special needs may have mild learning disabilities or profound mental retardation; food allergies or terminal illness; developmental delays that catch up quickly or remain entrenched; occasional panic attacks or serious psychiatric problems. The designation is useful for getting needed services, setting appropriate goals, and gaining understanding for a child and stressed family.
I encourage you to learn more by visiting this amazing site! that Terri maintains.
"Special Needs" is an umbrella underneath which a staggering array of diagnoses can be wedged. Children with special needs may have mild learning disabilities or profound mental retardation; food allergies or terminal illness; developmental delays that catch up quickly or remain entrenched; occasional panic attacks or serious psychiatric problems. The designation is useful for getting needed services, setting appropriate goals, and gaining understanding for a child and stressed family.
I encourage you to learn more by visiting this amazing site! that Terri maintains.
