WITH the holiday season comes a lot of travelling and catching up with extended family and friends. Although this is a good thing, it can be a rather daunting time for parents of children with special needs. According to Wendile Mtshali, a speech and language therapist, who specialises in paediatric care, “It is important to recognise that not all children experience the holidays the same. In my experience in working with families who have a child with special needs, communication difficulties and sensory needs can often create additional challenges in their daily lives.
“These hurdles may include difficulties in word production, understanding and use of language, social interaction and overall communication skills and often result in exclusion from family activities and a sense of isolation in the child.”
Mtshali argues that it is important for families to understand the needs of the child in order to not make them feel like they are not part of the family and also to be mindful of the way families interact and communicate with the child.
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“Communication plays a vital role in the lives of children with special needs. Difficulties in word production, language comprehension and social interaction can make it challenging for them to fully take part in family festivities. It is essential for family members to understand and accommodate these unique communication needs,” Mtshali said.
“Sadly, derogatory names and exclusionary behaviour towards children with special needs put a strain on the relationships within the family unit. It is important for families and extended families to be mindful of the specific needs of special children and to note that not all disabilities are physical, therefore each child with special needs is unique,” added Mtshali.
Mtshali gave some helpful tips on how to make the holidays more enjoyable and fun for children with special needs and their families:
- Patience, understanding and active listening – it is important to be understanding and patient when interacting with a child who has special needs and to allow them to express themselves in their own way and time.
- Create a communication-friendly environment by ensuring that the setting is not overly noisy or crowded as this can make communication difficult for the child.
- Simplify language – use simple and clear language and break down complex ideas and/or instructions into smaller more understandable parts.
- Gestures, pictures and visual aids can help enhance communication.
- Establish routine and structure – create a predictable routine and structure as this can help children with special needs feel more secure and confident.
- Plan activities that encourage interaction with other children.
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Mtshali also stressed that it is important for parents of kids with special needs to educate other families that are going to be around the child on how best to interact with them and be mindful and supportive of the child who needs special care.
“Parents can create an open and safe space for family members to ask questions, seek clarity and share concerns. This can help in facilitating understanding and empathy among family members. The parents can also encourage family members to embrace and celebrate the unique abilities and strengths of the child.
“They can also buy educational materials, such as books that offer valuable information, and that will give a deeper understanding of the child’s condition,” added Mtshali.
Mtshali added, “By implementing these tips, families can create a festive season that is enjoyable, accessible and memorable for children with special needs. This inclusive approach allows them to fully participate in activities and feel valued as cherished members of the family.
“Together, let us celebrate diversity and inclusivity this festive season, ensuring that no child is left behind.”
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