If you have a child with a physical disability, how can you plan your familys life in a way that is inclusive for everyone? What can you do to create a family where every member pulls his or her own weight (in appropriate measure), meets challenges, and has his or her moments in the spotlight along the way? Most parents of a child who has a physical disability want him or her to have fun, be responsible, make friends, and take acceptable risksin short, to feel like 'just one of the kids'and they want to make sure that the needs of the whole family are met, too.Just One of the Kids is designed to help parents focus not on what could have been but instead on what can be, so that they, their children, and the grandparents can thrive as individuals and as a family. The advice from psychologists Kay Harris Kriegsman and Sara Palmer is valuable for any family with children who have a physical disability, whether from disease, disorder, or injury. Their warm and encouraging book is full of family stories, tips, and tools. Parents of children with physical disabilities can help them develop the skills needed to meet lifes challenges and launch into independence. Parents, building on that foundation and acknowledging each persons contributions, interests, and aspirations, create an inclusive and resilient family.
Preface Introduction: Raising Children—Resilient and Ready for Adulthood Part I: In the Beginning The Webers: A young family juggles the needs of twin boys, one with and one without a physical disability 1. Getting the News The Hamiltons: Raising teenagers in a blended family with humor, responsibility, and respect for differences 2. Coming Home Part II: All in the Family The Bowers: An athletic couple sort out what works for them in raising their only child, a serious student and accomplished wheelchair athlete 3. Inclusive Parenting: Make It Work for You The Fishers: Parents working together to build family unity and protect their children while allowing them to take healthy risks 4. Brothers and Sisters: Siblings Sharing Family Life with Physical Disability in the Mix The Brandons: A family devoted to faith, education, and unconditional love, inspired by Grandfather's example and bolstered by his support 5. Grandparents: Seeing through a New Lens Part III: Into the Wide World The Sheridan-Wolfe Family: Two women build their family by adoptingchildren who have complex disabilities and helping them reach their potential 6. Opening Doors to Inclusion The O'Briens: Parents working together to help their daughters develop individual talents, support one another, and practice their faith 7. Letting One Dream Go to Let Another Grow Resources Notes Index
""This book is ideal for any parents or carers who are caring for children with physical disabilities.""
