Traditional parenting methods don't usually work with this diagnosis because of the severity of the emotional disturbances these children present. 

In order for these children to be able to bond with an adult, they need to be able to trust them and that will only happen if they ever get to feel protected. The environment they need for healing is one where they feel actually safe and with a stronger leader than they are. 

 

In order to be able to 'connect', these children require a very clear balance between structure and nurture. 

It is often difficult for the families to provide this and meet these children's needs despite the challenges they face because of the children's behaviors. 

 

With the adequate information, coaching and support (training, therapist, respite provider, school staff, etc…), these parents can actually be empowered enough to deal with the obstacles and still be emotionally able to help their children thrive. 

 

It does take a village to raise a child, but thanks to that so many children can make it.

 

Not everything depends on that, though. Some children need to learn how to regulate and control themselves before being able to deal with a home environment and that is also alright. 

 

In ILUME are definitely willing to get on the ride with you and struggle with you on the lows and celebrate with you on the highs. We know there is no small victory when talking about RAD, and success looks different in every family, which is why, without judgment, we do our best to help families figure out what that would be for their situation. 

 

We have seen all kinds of possible endings and witnessed so many different scenarios. The common goal for most of these families is usually the same: Getting peace and calm back in their homes.

 

And that can happen.

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