Little children, big needs

the long version

What are the unique concerns of parents who raise children with exceptional needs? This central question is addressed in Little Children, Big Needs through thoughtful, candid interviews with fifty families of children two months to six and a half years old who have a wide range of disabilities: cerebral palsy, Down's syndrome, developmental delays, emotional disturbances, autism, hearing impairments, speech and language delays, hydrocephalus, microcephalus, spina bifida, and prematurity. In a highly readable format, Little Children, Big Needs provides answers, advice, resource information, and invaluable support for families who are facing complex challenges. In addition to their discussions with parents, authors Don and Marilyn Weinhouse explore real questions that parents of children with exceptional needs find themselves asking. For example, "My spouse won't admit that there's something different about our child. What should I do?" "How can I help my other children cope with their feelings?" and "Where can I find out what services are available in our area?" are just a few of the helpful questions the authors have included. At the end of each chapter, a "Tips for Parents" and "Tips for Professionals" section summarizes key points. Geared especially for parents, Little Children, Big Needs is also an excellent resource for professionals in early childhood education, special education, pediatrics, general medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, audiology, day care, social work, individual/family counseling, and recreation therapy. The extensive range of topics covered in Little Children, Big Needs ensures that this book will remain a relevant reference for many years to come.