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HomeAsk the ExpertShould We Label Children with Special Needs? Weighing the Pros and Cons

Should We Label Children with Special Needs? Weighing the Pros and Cons

Apex Social Group looks at the meaning behind labeling your child with special needs, a disability or as neurodiverse

Apex Social GroupThe question of labels is one many of us face as we navigate a society obsessed with categorization. When our children deviate slightly from the norm, it seems like there’s always an eager “expert” ready to slap on a label. These labels can range from sensory processing disorder (SPD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning differences or disabilities (LD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and many more. In addition, a parent is faced with the broader debate around which label is most appropriate, such as neurodiverse, disabled or special needs.

It can be a frustrating experience when you know something is amiss with your child, yet you don’t have a name for it. And for parents of older children thoughts might include, “If only I had gotten them diagnosed when they were young, we could’ve received the necessary support to manage the ADHD, and perhaps things would’ve been better.” Indeed, early diagnosis can lead to early intervention and open doors to specialized education programs and services. But parents also wrestle with the reality that it can mean a permanent label that could hinder progress and the healthy development of their child’s identity.

Alex Social GroupWhen families come to Apex Social Group seeking care for their newly diagnosed children we often see them hesitant to share the diagnosis publicly for fear that their child will be labeled. As parents, deciding whether or not to label a child with special needs can be a challenging decision to make, especially with children that fall into the higher functioning category. It’s important to understand the pros and cons of labeling so that you can make an informed decision based on your unique situation.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of a Special Needs Label
On one hand, a label can provide a clear explanation for your child’s differences. It can help you as a parent to better understand your child’s unique needs. For those who may have never encountered or heard of a particular disability before, having a label can offer valuable insight. A label can also help you locate resources and support systems to assist your child in their journey to success. For example, if you discover your child has dyslexia and their school doesn’t provide appropriate accommodations, being armed with that knowledge enables you to advocate for alternative teaching methods or additional time for tests, ensuring your child’s needs are met. A diagnostic label can also foster better communication approaches for the child, help set clearer expectations and give insight into how to shape environments to help them thrive and learn.

Apex Social GroupHowever, a label can also be isolating and contribute to the development of a stigma. When a child carries a label, their experience may differ from that of their peers, leading them to feel different, alone and unable to connect with others. Labels can create social barriers, as people may make assumptions about your child based solely on their diagnosis. These assumptions can result in unhelpful and unsupportive judgments, such as assuming that a child with autism will never be able to live independently. Additionally, individuals may hold different expectations for children with special needs, imposing unnecessary pressure and disregarding the individuality of each child’s journey. Stereotyping, discrimination and prejudice are all concerns.

It’s important to remember that a label does not define a person’s abilities for life. It can provide a starting point for understanding and obtaining appropriate support, but it should not restrict our perception of a child’s potential. Individuals with the same label can have vastly different strengths and abilities. For example, someone with Down syndrome may have a wide range of intellectual capabilities, including high IQs and exceptional talents. Dual diagnoses’ are also common. My oldest son, for instance, had been diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, ODD and ADHD, yet where he once fit into all the diagnostic criteria for those labels, as he grew older, he did not. Each person’s journey is unique, and their potential should not be limited by a label.

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Seeing a Label as Starting Point
While it’s crucial to obtain an accurate diagnosis for proper treatment planning, labels should be seen as a starting point rather than a lifelong sentence. Evaluating and adjusting a child’s needs as they grow is essential. Labels can facilitate evaluations and lead to more effective treatments over time. Nevertheless, it’s important to ensure labels are assigned and used correctly to avoid potential harm or misinterpretation by others.

Special Needs
Special needs is a familiar term that has been used for a long time as an umbrella term to encompass a wide range of disabilities, conditions, and challenges. It can be seen as an attempt to acknowledge and include individuals who may have diverse needs and has aided communication among educators, healthcare professionals and policymakers. Some people argue that it can be vague, lacking specificity about the nature of the needs or disabilities involved. This vagueness might lead to misunderstandings or assumptions about an individual’s capabilities or challenges.

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Disability
The term disability holds empowerment and recognition for many disabled individuals and advocates. It acknowledges their identity, experiences and challenges, fostering self-acceptance and disability pride. It’s also a recognized and protected category in many countries’ legal frameworks. This legal recognition ensures equal rights, accessibility and accommodations for disabled individuals. But there are drawbacks to consider as well.

Some people perceive the term negatively, associating it with limitations or inferiority. It’s important to recognize that preferences can vary among individuals. Some may prefer first-person with a disability for example, or specific terminology related to their disability, like autistic or deaf.

Neurodiverse
Finally, let’s delve into the term neurodiverse. This term highlights the value of neurodiversity and promotes inclusion and acceptance. It recognizes the natural variations in neurological characteristics and cognitive differences, fostering a more inclusive view of different neurological conditions. By adopting a strengths-based approach, “neurodiverse” focuses on the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that individuals with neurological differences bring to society. But it may lack specificity when it comes to addressing the specific challenges or needs of individuals with different neurological conditions. This broadness might overlook the distinct experiences and support requirements within the neurodiverse community. Additionally, as a relatively newer term, “neurodiverse” may not be universally understood or recognized, requiring additional explanation or clarification in certain situations. It’s important to note that not all individuals within the neurodiverse community identify with or prefer this term, as some may still prefer condition-based terms that resonate with their personal identity or community affiliations.

Apex Social GroupDespite the potential challenges and negative aspects, a label can also bring opportunities and access to much-needed support. When your child receives a diagnosis, it can open doors to understanding and acceptance within the community. Society tends to be more receptive and understanding when they recognize someone has faced unique challenges. Parents who share similar experiences may find solace and connection through open conversations. Additionally, a label can grant access to specialized services and programs tailored to a child’s specific needs, including educational support, therapy, and funding options.

Looking Beyond the Label
To ensure the positive aspects outweigh the negatives when labeling a child as special needs, for instance, it’s important to focus on the purpose of the label, which is to determine appropriate treatment and access to resources. Parents should actively engage in the process, educating themselves about their child’s diagnosis and seeking out relatable figures in popular culture who share the same label. By finding examples of successful individuals who have overcome similar challenges, children can feel less alone and realize that their diagnosis does not limit their potential.

While a child’s chromosomal patterns, genetic makeup and neuro-wiring play a role in shaping who they are, we mustn’t allow labels to define our children. We should never let the labeling system confine them or hinder their full potential. Instead, let’s set high expectations and empower our children to thrive, irrespective of any label they may carry.

For more information, go to Apex Social Group.

 

Nicole KnicelyNicole Knicely is the VP of Strategic Partnerships & Family Advising for Apex Social Group. A proud mother of two adulting boys (one neurodiverse), has had a diverse professional background as an entrepreneur, business owner, and consultant. However, she has found her true calling at Apex Social Group, where she has been a valued member for nearly two years. Her passion lies in working with an organization that has a strong service mission to empower families and make a positive impact in the world.

Since 2008, Apex Social Group has been dedicated to providing a unique live-in childcare solution that fosters development and unlocks the full potential of every child. With a specialized focus on assisting families with special needs, they offer tailored support and guidance, along with an exceptional pool of candidates. Their expertise in this field has solidified their reputation as a trusted resource for families seeking high-quality care.

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