welcoming children with special needs

[chenda nuttall]

we have had two new families with severely disabled children come to our church this month. Both were very uncertain of whether they would find a welcome -how can we encourage churches to be more welcoming to all .It doesn't take a lot to try even if we know we have a lot to learn!!

[Paula Willis]

Just wondering how you are doing and are you learning lots? Are the families still attending and do they feel welcomed by the church? Have you had to change the way you do some things? Would be interesting to hear how you are supporting these families in church.
Paula

[chenda nuttall]

Yes the families are still attending the church and slowly we are getting to know them .We have started afternoon teas for the parents and their children once every two months and I have visited them in their homes .They go out to the same group as their peers but have a helper and special toys during the session. I think we have gained their trust but could probably do more.We have been able to purchase some special needs equipment and had someone from the autistic outreach team come and talk to the whole team.