Free Handouts
I wrote this letter to express empathy for all my mother went through raising a child with a hand difference — and to thank her for all the support and love she gave me over the years.
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Overhearing a parent talking to their child with a limb difference inspired me to think about what I would have liked to have heard as a child. Here it is in letter format.
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Children with upper limb differences often learn from people with two hands—and that means adapting every new activity. It’s easy to miss how hard their bodies are working. Let’s help them become body sleuths and learn to tune into their own needs.
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People upper limb differences (ULD) are at heightened risk of developing overuse syndrome over their lifetimes due to strain on the dominant side. Learn how to reduce the effects of overuse syndrome through intentional choices of adaptive equipment, awareness of biomechanics and posture, examination of societal messages, etc.
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We delve into the factors that affect typing and accessing a computer for children and young adults with hand/arm differences, including strain to the “dominant” hand as well as incorporating the “affected” hand or arm. While ergonomics is important for everyone who types, it is even more important for children with hand/arm differences
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Children need to be taught how to ask questions & connect with people who have visible differences and disabilities. We explore the two different kinds of questions and statements that people often ask and how they affect the listener.
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Many of us were conditioned to respond to children when they are sad in ways that aren’t the best for them. Some of the following responses are less helpful in the moment than using reflective listening and offering empathy. Many of us heard these from our families of origin. Knowing why they can be harmful can empower us.
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On social media, parents often share about the hard moments when their children feel sadness about their limb difference for the first time. Before offering suggestions for supporting children during these difficult moments, I wanted to examine this situation from the parents’ perspective. All children experience sadness about aspects of their life, but this situation is a little different. Let’s explore it!
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What happens when your child starts to notice their upper or lower limb difference? This post offers insight and practical tips to help you support your child with warmth and confidence.
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