Parenting with Assistive Technology
Parenting with Assistive Technology Assistive technology and equipment can enable parents with disabilities to complete the tasks involved in parenting more independently. This sheet provides some ideas for parents with disabilities to assist them in this parenting role. Techniques to conserve energy Plan and include rest breaks in your day. For example rests can be incorporated during your child’s nap time or when they are at play group/school. Schedule larger tasks for when you have the most energy. Plan and organise your work space to reduce fatigue. For example bathe your child at waist height to reduce bending and have clothes/equipment needed in arms reach. Assistive equipment for positioning/supporting your child A portable security belt that can be used on chairs to help keep the baby in a seated position. A stroller designed for wheelchair users by clipping to the wheelchair frame, allowing the parent to push and still propel the stroller. There are also strollers designed so that the baby carrier is mounted higher for parents who have difficulty bending. A crib that has swing-out sides rather than drop down rails to enable wheelchair access. Assistive equipment for holding, carrying and transferring A baby seat attached to a power wheelchair or a customised wheelchair lap tray that holds the baby in arms reach of parent. These options should be considered under guidance of a therapist as the attachment may affect the wheelchairs centre of gravity and ability to be transported. A baby sling/harness that can be worn on the parent to enable the baby to be supported and carried while allowing the parent to have full use of their arms. A car seat with customized car seat release mechanism for people with limited dexterity or swivel base to assist a wheelchair user to remove the baby independently (Please also refer to “Guide to Selecting Child Car Restraints for Children with a Disability or Medical Condition”). Safety harnesses attached to the child to allow them to walk in arms reach of the parent. Parenting with Assistive Technology The Independent Living Centre provides a free and impartial information and advisory service to help you choose the right product for you Assistive equipment for feeding/ nursing Bibs with Velcro fasteners or pull over style may assist parents with fine motor difficulties. A rubberized plastic bib with front pocket to catch spills and reduce need for cleaning. Baby bottles with Velcro wrap so the bottle does not need to be grasped by the parent. A breast feeding support pillow that can be secured on the lap while sitting. High chairs with features such as a tray that swings open to one side and/or adjustable seat height. Assistive equipment to aid with hygiene and dressing A safety chair to maintain the baby in an upright position in the bath may reduce the physical effort of the parent. Baby baths with built in supports to help hold them in place. A bath on a raised surface or on a height adjustable frame facilitates access. A height adjustable changing table allows the parent to position themselves at a good working height to dress their child. Changing pads that have foam cushion with higher sides to help keep the baby in place. Disposable diapers with Velcro closures may be easier to fasten for parents with fine motor difficulties. Also, cloth diapers can have key rings attached to make grasping easier. Choose baby clothing with manageable fastenings or pull over tops with v/scoop necks Customised assistive equipment Some of this equipment detailed are ideas and may not be available in stores. Some organisations are able to modify existing equipment or custom make products for parents with disabilities. Resources Disabled Parents Network This UK based website provides information, case studies and resources. http://disabledparentsnetwork.org.uk/ Parents with Disabilities Online This website provides ideas for adaptive parenting aids and resources. http://www.disabledparents.net/ Parenting with Physical Disability This article details challenges for parents with disabilities and personal stories. http://raisingchildren.net.au/parents_with_physi cal_disability.html TADWA This organisation provides custom-engineered products and modifies equipment for people with disabilities. Tel: 9379 7400 Address: 371 Collier Road, Bassendean 6934 http://www.tadwa.org.au/
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