Natural disasters often force people to flee. No matter what the conditions are, they must be in a safe and secure place. Including children with special needs, they should get a place that suits their needs.
Parents with children with special needs should understand what their child’s needs are and pay attention to the conditions in the evacuation. The following is a guide for parents and companions when evacuating with children with special needs, as quoted from the yourstoragefinder website, Tuesday, April 20, 2021.
Evacuate with a child who is in a wheelchair
The first condition to pay attention to is accessibility in the new place. Instead of being in refugee barracks, parents usually choose to live temporarily in a relative’s house or a hotel. But what matters is not the place, but the accessibility.
It will be dangerous if the child takes refuge in a place that is not accessible. The reason is that children cannot move without the help of their parents or guardians. Therefore, prioritize the availability of access in refugee camps so that children are well protected. Make sure there are ramps or choose a room on the ground floor to make it easier for children to get in and out of the room.
- Refugees with children with sensory disabilities
- Parents or guardians must consider several conditions that can hinder the activities of children with sensory disabilities. For example, children with visual disabilities must know the shape or location of the room in a new place to facilitate mobility.
- Put items commonly used by children in one bag and do not move them without notifying the child. If a child has hearing loss, parents must be diligent in communicating about what the child needs. Parents should not conclude for themselves what their child’s needs are without communicating.
If necessary, prepare spare items that children usually use in one bag, so that children can carry out activities comfortably in their new place. The standby bag also needs to be filled with a supporting device, such as a white cane, hearing aids, and supporting components.
Of all the preparations and conditions that have been considered, there is one other thing that is no less important and should not be overlooked. Continue to consult and communicate with doctors and child therapists. Remember that the routine therapy process that children with special needs have undergone should not stop for a long time. Therapy that is delayed too long will trigger a deterioration in the physical or psychological condition of the child.