Home » Partners & Parents » Child Welfare » Protecting Special Needs Children

Protecting Special Needs Children

© Dena Standley

Children with special needs are at least two times more likely to be abused than children without special needs. Special needs can include physical, mental, emotional or developmental conditions.

As parents, educators, social workers or anyone who works with these children there are things we can do to help make them safer. The most important step is knowing the signs and symptoms of child abuse. This can be challenging if the child has limited communications skills, but close attention by someone who knows the child well can prevent disaster. There are many things we can teach children to give them the power to help protect themselves.

1. It is okay to teach children to politely say "no." They deserve the right to set healthy boundaries for themselves. That means that their bodies belong to them and nobody should touch them without their permission. Don't force them to give or receive hugs or kisses from family or friends if they are uncomfortable.

2. Give them a healthy self-esteem. Give them tons of praise and make sure they know that you believe in them.

3. Teach all children to express their feelings.

4. Tell them how to seek help and make sure they know they should always tell you about anyone who hurts them or makes them feel uncomfortable.

For more information on caring for children with special needs visit the Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities at www.nichcy.org.

The copyright of the article Protecting Special Needs Children in Child Welfare is owned by Dena Standley. Permission to republish Protecting Special Needs Children in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.