Just like every child, social emotional development is very important for children with Spina Bifida. Because of numerous hospital and specialist appointments, they may not have as many experiences or opportunities for experiences in a social settings. This could lead to the making and keeping of friends being very difficult. They may also have poor motivation which could lead to them avoiding social interactions or activities. Ways to help a child to be more social is to encourage them to initiate social interactions in a small group such as asking a classmate to be their partner. Other problems may include waiting for their turn, taking turns talking, insisting on immediate attention, and interpreting social cues. Another difficulty is establishing the proper space between people, either standing too close or too far, therefore they end up dismissed or ignored. Correctly reading facial expressions can also often be difficult, which can cause many misinterpretations. Some ways to support social emotional development are to have plenty of encouraging posters on the wall and watch some plays or movies showing positive social interactions between children. Providing choices for the child will also help with their social and emotional development. It can be as small as choosing which activity they would like to participate in such as, would they like to paint or do a puzzle?
It is important to cultivate social skills as soon as possible to discourage seclusion, and encourage inclusion. Also, it is crucial that children with Spina Bifida not only socialize with children without disabilities, but befriend children with disabilities. This is an important opportunity to share their similar challenges and life experiences.
References:
http://www.noahsark.net.au/
www.spinabifida.org
It is important to cultivate social skills as soon as possible to discourage seclusion, and encourage inclusion. Also, it is crucial that children with Spina Bifida not only socialize with children without disabilities, but befriend children with disabilities. This is an important opportunity to share their similar challenges and life experiences.
References:
http://www.noahsark.net.au/
www.spinabifida.org