YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND

Do you have a friend whose child has been recently diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Cancer, or other areas of special needs?

Did you know what to do or say?

It is difficult to know exactly how to handle this situation. The www.knowledgesafari.com team has put together some tips, please share yours with us too!

Overall, the most important thing is to be there as a shoulder or an ear. Even if you do not think that you know the right thing to say – you can always say “I don’t know what to say, but I am here for you.” Your friend will take it from there.

Additional tips:
- Show interest in your friend and their child. Ask questions.
- Offer to watch the children so parents can have a much needed break.
- Help your friends keep a sense of humor – a good laugh can be healing
- Cut out /email articles that might be helpful
- Don’t assume what your friend needs, ask! Don’t assume they can’t meet you for lunch; ask if they can fit in the time!

Parents – what is the best advice you can give to your friends about how to be most helpful to you?