One in 68 children is diagnosed with autism according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April is Autism Awareness month, and it’s the perfect time to look around your workplace. How many parents have a child with a physical, mental or emotional disability? You can support these parents in five ways.
- Provide Health Insurance
With therapy, medical treatments, specialist visits, specialized equipment and so much more, caring for a child with special needs is expensive. Both full-time and part-time employees need healthcare coverage to decrease the financial burden, give them peace of mind and allow them to meet their child’s needs. Encourage your employer to provide a health savings account option, too, that pays for medical expenses health insurance might not cover.
- Offer Child Care
Finding reliable child care for special needs children challenges most parents. Offering child care during work hours, summers and school vacations ensures parents don’t miss work because their babysitter’s sick or school’s closed. Trained professionals can provide respite care one or two nights a month, too, and give employees a much-needed mental, emotional and physical break.
- Give Financial Assistance
Even with adequate health insurance, most families who are affected by special needs have big financial burdens. Organize a fundraiser to cover expenses like gasoline, copays and dietary items or collect gift cards to grocery, convenience and department stores.
- Host a Support Group
Everyone needs support, and talking to people who understand is a healthy way for parents to handle stress, problem solve and recharge. Schedule regular support meetings as you also raise awareness and offer support.
- Share Referrals
From estate lawyers to assistive technology information, parents of a child with special needs require plenty of resources. Post and regularly update a list of general referrals in the break room. Customize it based on your coworkers’ needs to make an even bigger impact.
Being a parent to a child with special needs is tough. Advocate for five key supports at your workplace. The parents of a child with special needs will appreciate your efforts and help.
