Children with disabilities

With the news of a disability or illness of the child are associated with fears, worries and questions for expectant parents. Special counseling centers can help in this difficult situation.

When expectant parents receive the news that their baby may have a disability, it is always a big shock. Many feel helpless and alone with the question of what may be in store for them and how to proceed. There may also be questions about whether the mother wants to carry the baby to term. Early counseling is especially important in this situation. It can help to reduce fears, overcome the initial helplessness and find suitable support services.

Counseling centers run by various agencies are available in many places, for example from Caritas, Diakonie, the churches, Pro Familia, Arbeiterwohlfahrt or independent associations. You can go in person to a counseling center of your choice or get advice by phone, e-mail or online chat. The counseling is voluntary, free of charge and confidential, if desired anonymous.

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

Parents of children with disabilities are entitled to many forms of assistance. The support ranges from care services for children to rehabilitation measures and early intervention to financial support for remodeling measures. You should not be afraid to accept any help available to make life easier for you and your child. The local associations for the disabled and participation counseling centers are the first points of contact. Here you will receive moral support as well as information about which offices are responsible for which assistance offers.

Parents of children with a (threatening) disability are entitled to early intervention. It is aimed at children between 0 and 6 years of age. In the early intervention centers, various specialists work together 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 abnormality or impairment in the child's development is detected, the better appropriate measures can be initiated. Early support is important to mitigate the consequences of disabilities. Especially in the first years of a child's life, curative education and therapeutic measures can have a positive influence on development. Examples of early intervention include movement therapy, vision school or language support. Specially trained therapists work with the child to develop and improve his or her skills. In early intervention, parents and caregivers also learn how to contribute to the child's development with targeted exercises.

Where you can go with your child to the appropriate early intervention, often knows the pediatrician. You can also search the Internet for suitable offers. On the website www.frühförderstellen.de, there is a funding agency finder.