Caring for children with disability

Caring for a child or young person with a disability requires a significant commitmen. We need to provide for their everyday needs, ensure they are connected to their families, are considered valued members of their community, and help them reach their full potential.

Children and young people with a disability have the same rights and needs as other children which are:

  • a loving home
  • a community
  • an education
  • a pathway to employment
  • a family
  • a network of friends

All children need the care of loving adults, time with friends and a wide range of life experiences.

Taking care of yourself

The experience of caring for a child with disability can be very rewarding. Seeing a child with a disability responding to care, growing in capacity, and developing their relationships is a powerful experience. However, it can also have a significant effect on the emotional and social aspects of your life.

Learn to read the signs of your own stress and respect your limitations. It is easy to override initial signs that you are becoming tired.

It is important to regularly discuss your own needs with your Care Team and maintain your own health and well-being. This is important for your own welfare, and the welfare of your family and the children who are in your care.

Resources - support and information

Raising children

Australian Government

National Disability Insurance Scheme

Australian Capital Territory: ACT Office for Disability

New South Wales: NSW Department of Family and Community Services – Disability and inclusion

Northern Territory: NT Government – Disability services

Queensland: Queensland Department of Communities, Disability Services and Seniors – Disability Connect Queensland

South Australia: Government of South Australia – Disability

Tasmania: Communities Tasmania - Disability

Victoria: Victorian Department of Health and Human Services – Disability

Western Australia: WA Department of Communities – Disability services

myLearning - disability related emodules

Want to become a carer?
To become a foster carer your ability to care and nurture a child is what really matters.
To learn more, visit the LWB foster care website