Braver Than You Think

Every parent wants the best for their child. But if your child has been diagnosed with a developmental delay or disability, there can be a lot of uncertainty…

  • How can you help your child to be the best they can be?
  • How do you know if you are doing the right things for your child?
  • And how can you help your child to lead a good life?

Braver Than You Think is here to help you in your journey as a parent of a child with a disability.

In this book, you will learn the 5 BRAVE principles that will help you to help your child live their best life:

  • Be aware, and act early
  • Recognise your child’s needs
  • Assist, but don’t insist
  • Validate your child
  • Empower yourself and your family

Filled with clear information, practical advice and strategies and case examples to help you learn from other parents and children, Braver Than You Think will help you to develop the confidence that you can make good decisions about your child’s care, and that ultimately you can help your child to lead a happy, fulfilled and meaningful life.

What people are saying about ‘Braver than you think’…

“This respectful and supportive book is a must read manual for those parenting a child with disabilities to live their biggest life.

The steps towards becoming BRAVE as a parent are outlined in a practical and empowering way. Emily and her beautiful wisdom and words are there on the journey with you every step of the way.”

Cathy Love, Allied Health Business Coach, Occupational Therapist, Speaker, Author

“As a mother of a 2 year old little girl with Koolen De Vries Syndrome (17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome) it is my wish that not only every parent that has a child with a disability can read this book but that every parent can read it. ‘Braver than you think’ is an invaluable resource for any parent that recognises developmental delays in their child… I am excited to have a tool such as this on the days I feel a little lost”.

Amy Forrester, Mum to Juliet, aged 2 years

““You are a powerful voice for your child.” Emily captures an important concept that all parents need to know and embrace, especially if you have a child with special needs.  This is the book that would have been very useful when my son was born and will be my newest resource to help achieve the best life possible for him.  “Braver than you think” will set any parent concerned about their child’s development on the right path for seeking assistance for their child and ensuring the best fit for their family.

Anne Borg, Mum

About Emily Hayles

Emily is a physiotherapist who has worked with children with disabilities and their families since 2006. She is the founder of Move and Play Paediatric Therapy, a leading children’s therapy service, and also the Mum to 2 small children.

Through both her clinical work, as well as her published research into parents’ experiences of health care for their children with cerebral palsy which she has presented at national and international conferences, Emily has had the privilege of listening to and learning from hundreds of children with a disability and their families.

In this book, Emily brings together her professional knowledge, the stories and experiences of children and their families, and her personal experience as a Mum, to unpack the key elements of what parents can do to support their children with developmental delays or disabilities to be the best they can be.