Love & Lasting Support
Raising and supporting a child with a disability or developmental delay can be both deeply rewarding and challenging. The reality is that every child learns and develops in their own way, with unique strengths, needs, and preferences. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, there are practical strategies that can help support your child’s overall growth. Read on to learn more and get insight from an expert.
Labels and Diagnoses
When a child is diagnosed with a disability, the diagnosis can sometimes take center stage. According to developmental-behavioral pediatrician at Siskin’s Children Institute,
Lorena Ferreira, labels and diagnoses are necessary for understanding symptoms and behaviors, but they don’t define who a person is.
“Parents know their child better than anyone,” she says. “A diagnosis can provide answers and open doors to support, but it does not define a child or determine their future. It’s important for guardians and loved ones to focus on strengths, celebrate progress, and remember that growth happens one step at a time.”
Learning Activities and Routines
There is no “perfect” way to support a child with a disability. Experts recommend that parents and caregivers focus on creating consistent routines and celebrating progress, no matter how small. Parents and caregivers can:
- Set realistic expectations based on their child’s strengths and abilities.
- Break everyday activities into
manageable steps. - Use visual supports, simple directions, or adaptive tools to encourage participation and independence.
- Model new skills and allow extra time for learning.
- Look for learning opportunities during everyday routines like mealtime, playtime, or errands.
“Just as important, remember that caring for yourself is part of caring for your child,” says Ferreira. “Many caregivers are balancing therapies, appointments, work, and family responsibilities while simply trying to make it through the day. Give yourself grace, accept help when it’s available, and remember that even small moments of rest can make a meaningful difference for you and your child.”
Advocacy = Support
According to Dr. Ferreira, “Effective advocacy starts with trusting what you know about your child while staying open to collaboration.”
Collaboration between a child’s guardians, teachers, and doctors creates a cohesive support system – combining clinical expertise, educational strategies, and firsthand knowledge of the child – and increases their likelihood for success. This support system also helps to relieve stress for guardians.
“Keep organized records, write down questions, and ask for clarification when needed,” Dr. Ferreira advises. “The best outcomes happen when families and professionals work as partners with one shared goal: helping the child reach their potential.”
Small Steps, Big Wins
Every child’s learning journey is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and pace of development. Rather than measuring progress against others, Dr. Ferreira encourages parents and guardians to celebrate the milestones that matter for their child.
“You are not alone, and your child is more than any diagnosis, delay, or challenge,” she finishes. “Children grow best when the adults around them see their strengths, understand their needs, and believe in their potential. Even small steps forward are meaningful and worth celebrating.”
Lorena Ferreira, MD, DBP
Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician,
Siskin Children’s Institute
Meet the Author
Abby Callahan, BA
Abby Callahan is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Spanish and the distinction of Cum Laude. She also graduated Magna Cum Laude from Chattanooga State Community College, earning honors through the Global Scholars Honors Program. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor/digital content specialist, Abby successfully fulfilled roles in marketing and event planning, as well as strategic communications and storytelling for a wide variety of initiatives. Today, Abby leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
