If your child has a physical disability, there are a variety of support groups that can provide help and practical advice for all of the family. Your GP can direct you to groups in your area. Your child may also be entitled to a government medical card to cover disability-related expenses even if your family income would not normally allow you to qualify.

Children with behavioural problems or disabilities such as autism, Aspergers syndrome or ADHD may benefit from some psychological assessment and therapy. If you suspect your child may have a learning difficulty, discuss it with their teacher as early as possible and contact the National Council for Special Education (www.ncse.ie), who can put you in touch with a Special Educational Needs Officer (SENO) in your area.