(Parent to Parent Continued from page 11) with the referred parent, even if these contacts are brief. Many programs encourage support parents to contact the referred parent at least once a week during the first few weeks so that the two families get to know each other more quickly. These early and frequent contacts will help the referred parent to feel sure that the Supporting Parent is indeed a reliable ally who will be there for them day in and day out. Characteristics of Parent to Parent • Most programs are parent-directed, and indeed it is this parent ownership and energy that seem to give the program its real strength. • Most programs are all inclusive and serve families of children/adults of all ages. • Most programs are cross-disability, with many different physical and developmental disabilities being represented, including prematurity, children whose parents are challenged by alcoholism or drug addiction or who have AIDS, children with mental illness or severe behavioral and emotional disorders, children who have special health care needs and/or children with acquired disabilities. • Each match evolves based on the needs and preferences of the referred parents; some matches are just a few contacts over a course of several days or weeks, while others evolve into lifelong friendships. • Eighty percent of P2P programs offer formal training for Support parents. (2007 Organization Survey) There are many different support and information opportunities available to parents. Some are directed by professionals and others are directed by parents. Sometimes the support is provided in a group setting and sometimes individually. Ideally, communities will offer a broad spectrum of options so that families can choose the one that is most comfortable and meaningful for them. Informational or emotional support by a professional is provided in a one-to-one setting. When parents are given a choice as to whom they would want to speak with about their child, they most often choose other parents who share their experiences. Literally hundreds, if not thousands, of parent support groups have been started by parents wishing to talk with other parents about similar issues.
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Bring home high quality healthcare from compassionate and capable providers. PSA HealthCare is a home care agency that provides nursing and home health aide care to special needs children and adults in Lehigh, Northampton, Berks, Montgomery and Schuylkll Counties. PSA has a team of caring professionals with the technical skills, knowledge and commitment to provide the highest level of quality care. PSA specializes in providing care to technology dependent children and adults. Call today for your free in home evaluation.
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For more information about Parent to Parent, visit www. ParentToParent.org.
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November/December 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com