Do you want to promote independence in kids with special needs? Guest blogger Paul Denikin, handyman and dad to a child with special needs, shares 2 remodeling tips that can make kids more independent and confident at home. He’ll be back in a week with more tips.
Remodel to Promote Independence in Kids with Special Needs, Pt. 1
Parents want to do all they can to make their children feel safe and comfortable in their own homes. That’s why parents of kids with special needs look for home repair and modification projects that promote independence in kids with special needs. The good news is you may not need to hire a contractor to do so; there are a few simple modifications you can most likely make on your own to improve your home for your child.
Tip #1: Make Your Home More Accessible from the Outside
One of the first modifications you can make to help your child gain independence is making the home more accessible from the outside. Constructing ramps or sloping driveways or sidewalks up to meet doorways will help your children get in and out of the house safely and independently. They will not need to wait for assistance, and they will feel as though a whole new world has opened up to them because they can get outside on their own.
Tip #2: Modify Doorways and Doorknobs
If your child uses a wheelchair or walker, widening doorways is a modification that you should do throughout your home. Your child should be able to move about your home freely and without assistance, and narrow doorways prohibit that movement. If you have some knowledge of construction and power tools, you may be able to widen your doorways yourself. However, if you need to hire a contractor and are concerned about costs, there are grants available to help cover the modifications you make to your home to accommodate your child with special needs.
In some cases, doorknobs make it difficult for children with special needs to move throughout the house. Some children lack the strength needed to grasp and turn doorknobs, while others who use crutches and walkers may not be able to let go of their device long enough to grasp and turn a knob. One modification that can solve this challenge is to replace your doorknobs with door levers. Lever-style door handles are easier to work for most people because a simple push is all that is required to open the door with a lever.
Paul Denikin is passionate about sharing his experiences on his site dadknowsdiy.com with working on DIY projects to benefit people with special needs children.
Your Ideas that Promote Confidence in Kids with Special Needs
You’ve heard Paul’s DIY ideas that promote confidence in kids with special needs. You can add your ideas in the comment box below.
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