Tips for autistic children and special occasions
There are definitely pitfalls for children on the autism spectrum with all special occasions, writes Altogether Autism national manager Catherine Trezona.
New to disability?
Finding out that your child, or the young person you care for, has a disability can be overwhelming. It could take you some time to come to terms with the different course you will now be navigating and it’s a good idea to get the right support and information in place. Your family GP is likely to be a good place to start but often specialist support groups can give you more specific advice.
National support organisations
There’s nothing like getting support or advice from someone that knows a bit about what you’re going through. National support organisations based on conditions and impairments offer a range of services and advice, including information packs, phone and online help services and advocacy. Read more to see a list of key support organisations.
Local support organisations
Supporting a child with a disability won’t be easy but there is plenty of support and information available at a local level as well.
You might also be interested in our section on carer wellbeing and reading some facts on disability in New Zealand.
Tips for getting started
Here’s some advice and tips from parents, advocates and people with disabilities on supporting a child with disabilities.
Freedom living her dream
Freedom Nathan is living her dream. The 20-year-old lives independently, cooks, cleans, and even drives at times. In fact, if you didn’t know her, you wouldn’t think she was blind.
Understanding Fragile X
When Bronwyn Markey first found out both her sons had Fragile X Syndrome, all her hopes and dreams of life with children disappeared. She’s since learned that nothing changes for your child after their diagnosis. They are still the same person they were before.
Cambridge woman wins place on Life Unlimited board
23 August 2018 – Sarah Verran of Cambridge is the winner of the Institute of Directors’ (IOD) Waikato branch Emerging Director – Disability Sector Award. Carla Muller of Hamilton has been announced winner of the Emerging Director Award. The IoD awards, announced at lunchtime on 23 August 2018, recognise newly engaged directors who demonstrate strong…
A summer to remember for Waikato children with diabetes
Kayaking, swimming and go karting provided children living with diabetes a memorable kiwi summer when the annual Waikato Diabetes Kids Camp was held at the Kauaeranga Valley Christian Camp in Thames earlier this year.
The many sides of Fe
Often the first thing people see when they meet 23-year-old Fe Jacobs is her disability. She just wishes it wasn’t all they see.
A life in true colour
Daniel Holt has a different view of the world. Living with albinism means he’s sensitive to bright lights – but it’s also given him an edge.
Mt Ruapehu amputee a modern-day explorer
Climbing a mountain and getting caught in a volcanic explosion might have changed the direction of William Pike’s life but plunging into the depths of the ocean challenges him now.
Guidance for selecting providers
It’s important to do your homework when selecting providers of services, treatments or interventions.
The earlier the better when it comes to life skills
Life skills – such as cooking a simple meal, getting dressed or using electronic banking – may not always seem like exciting tasks to learn but they are all very important in the process of gaining independence.