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Parents Need Coping Skills When a Child Is Born with a Disability

Last Updated: August 31, 2009

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Prenatal Tips for Your Newborn

In a world where many conditions can be cured, it is hard to accept that a baby may have a condition that can be treated, but not cured. The news is shocking and brings feelings of anger, sadness, anxiety, fear and depression. The anger can be directed at those who bring the bad news, such as doctors and nurses. Parents may also be angry at family and friends for what they see as a lack of support and understanding.

Being a new parent is a challenge in itself, but being the parent to a baby with special needs is even more overwhelming! Parents and friends will experience many emotions. Emotions are healthy reactions to difficult situations. These emotions will not disappear. It is important that parents accept their feelings and use coping skills, such as talking with other parents who have been through this, managing stress, and setting goals to deal with the fact that their child was born with a disability.


Learn more about Your Newborn Baby from Just In Time Parenting. You can also go to our Resource Links for additional information on child care and development.


Note to Parents: When reading this newsletter, remember: Every baby is different. Children may do things earlier or later than described here. This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If he or she is used, we are talking about all babies.
References: These materials were adapted by authors from Extension Just in Time Parenting Newsletters in California, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Tennessee, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.

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