Fears, worries and questions are associated with the news of a child's disability or illness for expectant parents. Specialist advice centers can help in this difficult situation.

When parents-to-be are told that their baby may have a disability, it is always a huge shock. Many feel helpless and alone with the question of what to expect and how to proceed. There may also be the question of whether the mother wants to give birth to the child. Early counseling is particularly important in this situation. It can help to reduce anxiety, overcome the initial helplessness and find suitable support services.

Counselling centers from various providers are available in many places, for example from Caritas, Diakonie, churches, Pro Familia, Arbeiterwohlfahrt or independent associations. You can go to a counseling center of your choice in person or seek advice by phone, email or online chat. Counseling is voluntary, free of charge and confidential, anonymously if you wish.

You can find a counseling center near you via the database of the BZgA.

Parents of children with disabilities are entitled to a lot of help. The support ranges from care services for children, rehabilitation measures and early intervention to financial support for conversion measures. You should not be afraid to accept any help available to make life easier for you and your child. The local disability associations and participation advice centers are the first places to go. They can provide you with moral support and information on which agencies are responsible for which types of help.

Parents of children with a (potential) disability are entitled to early intervention. It is aimed at children between the ages of 0 and 6. Various specialists work together in the early intervention centers to ensure that the children and their families receive the best possible support. Early intervention is free of charge for parents. It is provided regardless of the parents' income and assets.

The earlier a health problem or impairment in a child's development is identified, the better suitable measures can be introduced. Early intervention is important to mitigate the consequences of disabilities. Curative education and therapeutic measures can have a positive impact on a child's development, especially in the first few years of life. Examples of early intervention include movement therapy, vision school and language support. Specially trained therapists work with the child to develop and improve their skills. In early intervention, parents and caregivers also learn how they can contribute to the child's development with targeted exercises.

Your pediatrician will often know where you can take your child for suitable early intervention. You can also search the internet for suitable services. On the website www.frühförderstellen.de there is a support center finder.