Book of the Month December 2019 - Parenting Traumatized Children with Developmental Differences

Parenting Traumatized Children with Developmental Differences by Dr Sara McLean

​Parenting Traumatized Children with Developmental Differences is a book for Foster and Adoptive Parents. It is written with the possible feelings and perceptions of the carers in mind; those who may be new to their child or the Fostering/ Adoption world, or indeed those who may be experienced.

The book introduces the concept of developmental differences and is sprinkled throughout with how these may relate to early experiences. We found it an easy and digestible book to read - it has a unique method of unpacking ‘jargon’, whilst still addressing the complexity of the developmental process. It dedicates a chapter to each of the different aspects of development to consider, empowering readers to understand how these components may influence their child.
 
This book considers the shared and familiar experiences of carers being unsure of how to raise and support children in a way which meets their specific needs. It encourages looking beyond diagnoses, to focus on the presenting needs of the child. In our experience this can be overwhelming for carers who are unable to prepare for the complex needs of the children they may support.
 
It provides an overview to principles relating to attachment and sensory processing difficulties, in a manner which introduces these concepts and empowers the carer to begin to consider how these may be impacting on presentation. It provides some examples and foundational strategies for what sensory and attachment difficulties might look like. Importantly for us, though it provides some strategies and interpretations, it empowers parents and Carers to know when and where to ask for help from and does not suggest that presenting difficulties should be remediated by family intervention alone.
 
The book provides a wealth of examples of what and why things may be difficult, without being overwhelming. The focus is on understanding differences, discouraging compliance, moving away from "discipline" or punishment, and bringing into focus children's past experiences and how this may impact upon their perception of danger.
 
This would be useful for families to consider the wide-reaching impact of early developmental experiences, and we would certainly be recommending this to some of our families.
 
Emma Shedlow & Nick Smith
Occupational Therapists
Juniper Tree Therapy

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