When you're just learning how to care for a child with a disability, it can be stressful to consider what the future might hold. Parents worry about a variety of things surrounding their kids, from their disabilities to their schooling to how will the child survive without them.This blog provides valuable tips for parents and caregivers on planning for their child's future. They are as follows:-
- Special needs trust
A parent or guardian can design a special needs trust for a differently-abled child to provide funding for their future. The trust's goal is to provide the special needs child's future with income-producing assets such as stocks and property that will pay out benefits for living expenses.
- Write a will
Most people may not consider creating a will when they have a child with a disability. In fact, not having a will can potentially cause many problems in the future. There are three reasons you should have a will in place when you have a child with any disability: medical care and inheritance, guardianship, and insurance coverage. Your will clearly defines the inheritance of your child after your death. It also allows the transfer of assets to help ensure that your child's disability isn't a burden on others. There are several types of wills, therefore it is advisable to speak with a lawyer to understand what kind of a will would be best for you and your family.
- Building savings
Once the formal education begins for a differently- abled child, it is essential to start saving for their future so as to cover the cost of their higher education. Parents should think about what will happen when their child becomes independent and has to live on their own. Many parents of children with disabilities may be unaware of the amount of financial support their children may need in the future. Children with disabilities often have medical, educational, and social needs that can be expensive. In addition, many parents may find it hard to report on site for work due to their child's disability limitations. If you plan on saving for a future goal, make sure to include your child's future goals in that savings plan.
- Prepare a letter of intent
A letter of intent is a document that specifies the main goals of a child with a disability, how they will achieve them, and what accommodations will be made to achieve those goals. It explains what the parents and providers think will be necessary to achieve them, and it tells other people (teachers, school administrators, etc.) what they can expect from the family. A letter of intent does not have to be legally binding but can help establish a plan for a child with a disability. This document should include details of various people dealing with the child such as parents, teachers, therapists, and other professionals and their contact details.
Future Independence of the child
Although there are many programs now that educate people about living with disabilities and help them learn skills to live independently, there are however those with severe disabilities that may require assistance in the future. Planning for these life stages is crucial for the well-being of children with disabilities. With the idea that their child may need additional assistance in the future, parents should make plans early on, like what will happen when their child leaves home or needs more independence.
The plan for the future of your differenty-abled child should be done early on and well to help your child reach their full potential. Make sure that you create a safety plan, housing plan, social security plan, education plan, and personal care plan by keeping the above points in mind for the future of your child. If you have any queries regarding this, you can also resort to professional help to make an optimal plan for them.