When most of your time is spent caring for your disabled child and protecting them from all that can go wrong, it is very easy to cross the line into over protectiveness. Sometimes small risks can provide big gains. Letting loose of the apron strings from time to time on the playground and in other situations can help the child develop and give us a better idea of what our children are truly capable of.
Focusing on all the things your child cannot do will prevent you from seeing all the wonderful things they can do. Allow them to experience as much as possible on the playground, in the game rooms and all the other places that they can go. Within what your doctor has said is a safe activity for them, these experiences will build their self esteem.
Aside from the emotional benefits of a little rough and tumble play, the exercise will strengthen their muscles. The heart is a major benefactor in any form of physical exercise. It also increases lung capacity and helps ward off illnesses such as pneumonia. Strong legs and a strong back help prevent injuries. Flexibility also helps prevent injury. The more physically active any person is, the less likely they are to become depressed or experience anxiety.
It is so rewarding to watch a child play and exercise when all you ever do is worry about them. Look at how much they have grown. See how strong their legs and arms have become. Look at how well they relate to other children on the playground. You will begin to be more thankful for the health they do have. This is especially true after a long stay in the hospital or after months of intense physical therapy following surgery.
There are good health benefits just by being outdoors. If a child is unable to run and play, they can still get some vitamin K by being exposed to sunlight a few hours. Fresh air also has a rejuvenating effect. Being outdoors is an antidepressant for those who are stuck indoors for long periods of time.