Making it work- important info for parents with disabilities
Thursday, July 12, 2018
American guest author Ashley Taylor has written an interest article about important info for parents with disabilities:
Photo via Pixabay
Making it Work: Advice for Parents with Disabilities
Parents have a lot to prepare for and even more to contend with once a child arrives. It’s the job that never ends, a heartfelt responsibility that challenges one’s ability to cope with problems and a lifelong anxiety that comes with worrying about a child’s well-being. Being prepared and paying close attention to your child’s needs can do much to alleviate the worries that come with parenthood. For parents with disabilities, preparation is vital. Disabled individuals are perfectly able to parent effectively, but they may need to make special arrangements. If you’re moving into a new home that needs to be modified, or if you’re looking for ways to improve the layout and access of your house, there are a number of things you should keep in mind to keep your child safe and happy.
Accessibility
Providing effective care for your child means having easy accessibility to the exterior and interior of your home. If you’re in a wheelchair, it’s necessary to install a ramp or electric lift if there are stairs leading to the front door (ramps are usually less expensive). Inside, your hallways and doorways should be wide enough to allow unimpeded passage. Doorsshould be at least 32 inches (82 cm) wide, with flooring that doesn’t make it difficult to enter the bathroom or your child’s bedroom (swing-away hinges can also help improve access). If you have carpeted floors that are difficult to maneuver, consider installing a tile or hardwood floor that’s easier for a wheelchair to navigate.
Bathing
If you have an infant or small child, bathing can be difficult if you’re trying to use a bathtub or reach up into a kitchen sink. Many disabled parents prefer to come up with their own solutions. One option is to use a dishwasher hose with a Fisher Price baby bathtub placed on a computer table, or something of comparable height. This offers freedom of movement and a safe and accessible way to give your child a bath. It also eliminates the need for awkward reaching or movements that could be dangerous for your child.
Sleeping and diaper changes
Standard cribs are ill-suited to the range of motion and reach of which a disabled person is capable. That makes it very difficult to access and presents a safety threat when it comes to diaper changes. Some volunteer organizations, such as the Volunteers for Medical Engineeringin Baltimore, Maryland, have fashioned side-access cribs that allow you to reach directly inside.
Mobility
Carrying your child is considerably easier with a chest harness carrier. If you like having a stroller, it’s easy enough to attach one to your wheelchair using a velcro strap. There are also strollers that can be used independently with a wheelchair, such as the Cursum Accessible Stroller. The Cursum uses swivel wheels and easy height adjustability, making it easy to maneuver.
Feeding
Breastfeeding can be hard for disabled women who have to hold their baby with both arms for extended periods. The breastfeeding sling relieves the burden by attaching around the shoulders with a padded strap, distributing the baby’s weight and allowing the mother to breastfeed in comfort.
Take care of yourself
It’s very hard to be a good parent if you don’t take care of yourself. A healthy diet and 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night is essential, especially if you’re breastfeeding and taking care of a newborn. If this proves hard to do, ask for help from family or friends if you’re feeling stress or just need a little down time. It’s important to deal with the stress of parenthood in a healthy way. Practicing self-care, giving yourself something to look forward to and looking at the big picture are all things that can help new parents cope with stress.
A tough job
Parenting is a tough job regardless of your circumstances. Finding the right equipment and tools can make your job much easier. Remember that it’s essential to take good care of yourself and find ways to relieve the stress that all parents have to deal with.
Comment
When considering buying any baby equipment, make sure it complies with Australian and New Zealand Safety Standards. Here is an excellent page about safety needs when buying cots from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
