Denial A period of denial may offer parents and family members time to become accustomed to the pain and disappointment that the changes in family expectations bring. The process may continue through a period of sadness, intense anxiety, anger and guilt. Mourning There may also be a process of mourning the death of the dreams and expectations held for a child and over the loss of a healthy child. With proper help and support, most parents eventually begin a period of gradual adaptation and reorganization in which they gain confidence in their ability to care positively for the child in a rewarding way. Acceptance An acceptance stage is composed of a series of more positive steps.
Parents become more aware that the child is different.
They recognize that there is a problem that needs to be dealt with. They begin a search for the cause of the problem, a cure, and recognition of the child's limitations. This process usually brings about total acceptance of the child as a valued family member. Siblings Children share in the anticipation and excitement of a new baby in the family. They also share in the grief and pain that comes with the birth of an infant with a disability, as well as the acceptance of the child as a valued family member.