PALS
Parent Awareness of Learning Disabilities Support Group
What is it?
PALS is a group for parents/carers of Children (age 6 and above) and Young People with a diagnosis of a Learning Disability. It consists of 6 weekly sessions, each 2 hours in length. The group is run by the Children and Young People’s Learning Disability Team. The group is for parents/carers who would like a greater understanding of what it means for their child to have a Learning Disability.
The group enables opportunities to discuss different stages of development and provides an opportunity to connect with other parents/carers who also have a child with a learning disability.
The group covers things that may help to improve your child’s everyday life covering topics such as communication, sensory needs, health and behaviour. Support strategies are discussed throughout to help your child.
What does each session involve?
How will this help me?
Course Content
Session 1 – What it means to have a learning disability
This session looks at what it means to have a learning disability. We consider the impact of your child’s diagnosis on them and the wider support system and the process of adjustment to the diagnosis. We also introduce some key skills to support you and your child.
Session 2 – Developing Differently
This session looks at how your child is developing differently including supporting your child to develop skills, encouraging positive interactions and emotion regulation.
Session 3 – Communication
This session looks at how your child communicates and how to support and adapt communication using a range of strategies including visuals and social stories.
Session 4 – Sensory and Health
This session considers your child’s sensory needs and how to adapt the environment to support them. It also covers physical health needs which may present different in your child.
Session 5 – Managing Behaviour
This session considers the function of your child’s behaviour. We also discuss how to respond to behaviour which challenges and consider strategies to try at home.
Session 6 – Sleep and Self Care
This session covers sleep and a discussion around self care and wellbeing.
