908. Talking With Your Child About a Difficult Diagnosis

SRNA hosted an Ask the Expert podcast, a special edition in
collaboration with CDC, entitled "Talking With Your Child About a
Difficult Diagnosis." We were joined by pediatric
neuropsychologist Dr. Lana Harder. Dr. Harder discussed
strategies for talking to your child about the diagnostic tests
that are used at the onset of a rare neuroimmune disorder and how
they may be invasive or painful. She explained transition of care
as a child grows older and closer to adulthood and how to ensure
your child is able to ask questions pertaining to their medical
care. Dr. Harder talked about discussing concepts such as
disability and adaptive activities with your child and what the
future might hold for someone with one of these disorders.
Finally, Dr. Harder discussed the emotions children might
experience as part of this diagnosis and navigating your own
emotions as a parent while talking with your child about their
disorder.