Let them know they have achieved something, even the smallest accomplishments. Affection is also very important. A good hug or gentle touch can lift a child's spirits and make him/her feel your support. Your physical presence at their social activities is also a way to show them that what they are doing is worthwhile and important.

Be aware of your own actions. Dismiss the "do as I say, not as I do" mentality. Children with disabilities are just as prone to behave as their parents do as children without disabilities.

All too often, children with disabilities are so surrounded by doctors, specialists, teachers, caregivers, etc. most of whom are adults that they never develop the skills to relate to people their own age. Some children with disabilities rarely see or speak to other children outside the family, let alone with a similarlyabled peer, so when they are finally placed in a peer interactive situation, they often find themselves lacking the courage to participate.

Do your best to keep your child from hearing heated family discussions, especially if they deal with marriage difficulties or finances. The last thing a child needs to think is that he or she is the cause of family problems or financial distress. For the parent: try to carve out some time for yourself away from the stresses of home by seeking respite supports. Doing things that will help fulfill your own personal needs taking a college course, going shopping, or meeting a friend will help better prepare you to createaitive atmosphere at home.

Understand that for many children with a disability, a seemingly simple task may, for them, be a big challenge. For example, a child with a disability may find it difficult to feed himself Give him the chance to bring his own fork to his own mouth., In general, step back and ask yourself if the child can do the activity alone even though it may be a challenge let him try it.

It is important for the development of the child's self esteem if you slowly give up the notion that the child cannot function without you. (This may not be possible in certain circumstances.) Let her go to her brother's ball game or attend the school play, for example by her own initiative. Encourage your children's desire to release their dependency on you. If your children believe that they, not you, are responsible for their own growth, they are more likely to learn to develop their own self esteem.

Children long for you to communicate with them on a regular basis. Invite them to plan family activities or share their concerns on family issues. This will give them a sense of belonging and worth to the family.

A code of discipline develops respect and enhances the parent to child relationship. Ensure that all children in the family are disciplined equally, regardless of a disability. "No" for one child should be "no... for everyone.