In this article I am going to discuss how to best help families of children with developmental disorders.
The reason I have chosen this topic, is because on top of trying their best to cope with all the challenges that seem to come at parents from all angles, coping with the things that normally happen as part of their parenting role, having a child with a developmental disorder is an added complication.
It can cause added stress both physically, emotionally, financially and also take up a lot of time and resources.
Most parents do this willingly and love their child unconditionally but none the less families still need help with their child who has a developmental disorder.
There are a number of types of developmental disorder.
These include,

• Learning disabilities
• Autism
• ADHD
• Dyspraxia
• Mental retardation
• Functional disconnection
• Conduct disorder
• Communication disorder

Most families can cope with the above but after some time cracks may appear and the family unit may break down without help.
Help can be provided from a number of sources 1.
Other family members 2.
Close friends 3.
Neighbors and the wider community 4.
Other parents of children with disabilities or special needs 5.
Schools or Playschools 6.
Professional support and counselling services Help can be provided in a number of forms.
I have listed some examples so you can see which options best suit your child's needs and personal preferences.

• Speaking to someone for emotional support.
  Just having someone to talk to who will treat what you tell them with confidence
• Having someone spend time with your child playing and interacting with them giving you some free time
• Having someone teach your child a new skill or help develop existing skills
• Having someone you trust partaking in a hobby with your child, perhaps playing football, taking them to a game etc.
  
• Meeting other parents and professional services and sharing strategies and resources with you that is applicable to your child's needs.
  

What families of children with developmental disorders really need is someone who will not try to patronize them but who will listen with empathy and understanding and offer help without being too pushy.
When you have a child with a developmental disorder you never know whether your child will have a good day or a bad day.
Things change all the time depending on the circumstance and situation.
Parents need and should avail of whatever help is offered because they need to look after themselves too if they really are to cope with the highs and lows of having a child with developmental disorders.