A thorough understanding of the child's handicap can help parents eliminate guilt feelings and false assumptions. Often the family physician can refer parents to a clinic or specialist where a complete diagnosis can be made and available community resources identified. Like all children, exceptional children need to experience success. This gives them a feeling of accomplishment and helps them function better in a group situation. As they experience success and learn to function more independently with their handicap, they become less vulnerable.
Success stimulates children to try out other skills as well.
Following are some suggested activities a parent may use to stimulate the development of exceptional children. These experiences provide information that often stimulates new interests and leaning opportunities. Begin reading to the child at a very early age to develop interest in books. Take the child on field trips to a farm, zoo, fire station, or library. Provide opportunities for group interaction.