1. Every unique child is the same as having an intellectual disability: Most children once diagnosed with any neurodevelopment illness are labelled under the umbrella term of “intellectual disability”.
2. Once a child is diagnosed with special needs, nothing much can be done: Most special needs caregivers are not aware of their rights by The government of India, neither they are aware of the reservations made for special needs children in schools, colleges, and jobs.
3. There is no treatment for uniquely abled children: There are many therapies which are designed scientifically for the different types of disabilities, which when used judiciously can help make the child better.
4. Autistic children cannot do anything in life: There are many examples in the world where children were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and are living a “normal” life as any other neurotypical person.
5. There are no means of communication in autism apart from verbal expression: There are alternative communication strategies for children who are not verbal in autism spectrum disorder.
6. All disabilities are visible: Many developmental disorder is not visible as a disability, but requires attention once the symptoms start. For eg, ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).
7. You should not disclose the diagnoses to the world: A lot of parents feel distressed about what others will think about their child’s disability and so acceptance of the disability takes time thus preventing the advantage of early intervention.
8. Stem cell is a cure for autism: Stem cell is banned as a treatment the modality for autism in India.
9. Children with disabilities require only special schools: Special needs children can be put into inclusive schools based on their capacity.
10. Disability is a tragedy and just requires sympathy: Children with special needs encouragement to assimilate in the inclusive set-up.
Written by: Dr Puja Kapoor
Author’s bio:
Dr. Puja Kapoor is a Paediatric Neurologist & Co-founder of Continua kids
