Family Support

Supports and services can be built around your family's needs. A variety of supports and services  are described in this section. An example is in-home support, which can be a piece of equipment that helps you care for your child at home, or services like home health and respite.

For emotional support and information, Stone Soup Group believes connecting with other parents of children with special health care needs is a great way to go.

By helping yourself and your family, you become a stronger advocate for your child. The right supports can make your life a little easier.

Behavior Supports

All children misbehave or lose control from time to time. But some children with developmental disabilities may rely on behavior, rather than words, to communicate their needs and desires. Sometimes the behavior they choose makes it difficult to be included in family, school, and community activities.

If your child is experiencing these difficulties, help is available in many forms -- from private counseling to in-home behavioral supports. Communities vary in the resources available.

When choosing someone to work with you and your child on behavioral issues you may want to ask if they are experienced working with children similar to your child's age, special needs, and behaviors. 

Psychologists, Psychiatrists, and Licensed Social Workers are trained therapists that provide individual and family counseling. These professionals may be in private practice or located at a Community Mental Health Center or hospital. 

To help you select a therapist experienced in working  with children with special health care needs, contact  your Family Resource Specialist, STAR Program, doctor, Stone Soup Group, your Infant Learning Program, school staff,  or other parents of children with special needs.

Recreation

Play is important for our health. There are programs designed to get children with special  needs involved in recreational activities. Some of these programs have very specialized equipment and training to get a child out snow or water-skiing, horseback riding, swimming, playing team sports or joining in craft or cooking activities. Resources to check include municipal recreation programs, community schools and summer programs for children, scouting, and Special Olympics.

Ask your IEP team or a local developmental disability provider agency for ideas.

Respite

Respite is care provided to a child with special health care needs by a specially trained person. It is meant to give you a break from your caregiver role. Respite can be a break of a few hours or a longer time such as a family vacation. Respite can be an important part of caring for children with special health care needs. Being a good parent means taking care of yourself too. 

For contact numbers in your community, call the Division of Senior & Disabilities Services (DSDS): Anchorage 269-3600 or  Toll free 1-800-770-3930  TDD 269-3624 

Parent Support Groups

Parents of children with special health care needs are often each other's best advisors and allies. They are a valuable source of information and insight. Together, you can create changes and advocate for the best possible life for your children. For information about parent groups in your area, contact Stone Soup Group. We manage the Parent Training and Information project for Alaska as authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 

For lists of resource information, call Stone Soup Group 561-3701