ALS Learning Series
Talking with Children about ALS
March 25, 2021
Melinda Kavanaugh, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Despite the growing focus on persons living with ALS and their adult caregivers, children and youth caregivers, or “young caregivers,” remain the most hidden and least addressed in families with ALS. This is often due to the fear many parents have in how to talk about ALS, what to say and most importantly when to say it. Yet, what we do know is that youth are hearing more and accessing more online – thus it is critical for parents and families to start the conversation. This webinar integrates Melinda Kavanaugh, PhD, MSW, LCSW’s clinical expertise and many years of research with children and youth in families with neurological disorders, to guide families in engaging with children and youth. Additionally, Dr. Kavanaugh discussed the several books she has written, using the children’s own words to help guide these conversations.