STAYING HEALTHY

Taking good care of yourself = Taking good care of your child

SET A GOOD EXAMPLE

As a parent, you will set a good example for your children by being loving, responsible and consistent as much as possible. You can also set a good example by taking good care of yourself.  This teaches a child that it is important to respect and take care of oneself.  This is an important lesson that all children need to learn. As a parent, it is easy to lose sight of your own needs.  Parents, and especially new parents, tend to focus so much on the needs of their child, that they neglect their own needs.  This can be a problem, especially for a parent with a disability.

Your child will come to depend on you to be as healthy as possible, both physically and emotionally.  By taking care of your own needs, you will show your child that you respect yourself and that you are responsible for taking care of yourself, as well as others. 

A positive attitude, healthy diet, exercise, and adequate rest will give you more energy.  By taking care of yourself, you will have more to offer your child.  You will also be able to enjoy your child more if you are feeling good. 

Click on the following links for more information on these topics:

STRESS                            NUTRITION                        SLEEP

Don't try to hide the effects of your disability from your child. It is important for your child to see you managing your symptoms, time, and energy.  Remember that a young child loves you unconditionally and without question.  As children grow, they will accept the demands of your disability with greater ease if you are open and honest from the very start.

Be sure to establish a reliable support system and use it!  Don't be shy about asking for help. All mothers need help at some point and you may need help from your partner, family, friends, and others. The amount of help you need will change as your child grows and as your symptoms and healthcare needs change.  Asking for help is not a weakness-it is a strength.

For information on parenting issues according to the child's age group, please return to the table of contents by clicking here:  TABLE OF CONTENTS.