Parents of Amputees
Guidance, hope and connection for families supporting a child through limb loss
How do I help my child cope emotionally with limb loss?
Will they ever feel ‘normal’ again?
Yes – though it may take time. Children are incredibly resilient. With the right support and environment, they can thrive, develop confidence, and fully participate in life, just like their peers.
How do I support their confidence and mental health?
- Let them talk (or not) at their own pace
- Reinforce their identity beyond limb loss
- Connect them with peer mentors or amputee kids
- Ask your GP AND PROSTHETIST about child psychologists or support workers
Should I encourage them to talk about it, or wait for them to open up?
Gently offer the space to talk, without pressure. Some children open up through drawing, play, or storytelling. Keep asking open-ended questions and validate their feelings.
How do we prepare them to go back to school?
What do we tell teachers and classmates?
Be open but age-appropriate. You can:
- Arrange a meeting with the school staff before their return
- Share a short story or video to explain to classmates
- Ask the school to do a disability awareness session
How can the school support them (accessibility, awareness)?
Schools should offer:
- Accessible toilets & entrances
- Flexibility in PE and playtime
- Emotional support and inclusion planning
Your SENDCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) is key.
Should we worry about bullying or feeling left out?
Sadly, bullying can happen – but with early education, inclusive language, and supportive staff, most children feel accepted. Encourage open dialogue with your child and the school.
What should I expect during their recovery?
How long will it take for them to heal physically?
It varies, but children generally heal faster than adults. Soft tissue healing might take 4–8 weeks, but rehabilitation is ongoing as they learn new ways to move and do daily tasks.
Will they be in pain? What about phantom limb pain?
Yes, pain is common – including phantom limb pain. Children may describe tingling, burning, or odd sensations. Speak to the medical team about pain management options (including medications and distraction therapies).
Will the hospital support us emotionally as a family?
Yes – ask for the hospital’s psychological support service. Many paediatric rehab teams include a family support worker or counsellor.
When will my child get a prosthetic?
How often do kids need new prosthetics as they grow?
Children usually get new limbs every 6–12 months, depending on their age and growth rate. Frequent check-ins with the prosthetics team are important.
Are there special prosthetics for sports or school activities?
Yes! There are sports limbs, waterproof limbs, and lighter models designed for play. Ask your limb centre or prosthetist about options and referrals to specialist services.
Will they be able to play, swim, or run?
Absolutely. Many children return to sports, swimming, dancing – even trampolining! Adaptations or specialised equipment may be needed, but activity is encouraged.
Other Common Parent Concerns
Will my child be independent when they grow up?
Yes – with the right support, many amputees drive, work, parent, travel, and live fully independent lives. Focus on building skills, resilience, and confidence early.
Will they be able to drive, work, or have relationships?
Yes. They might need adaptations, but limb difference doesn’t limit ambition or love. There are amputee athletes, surgeons, actors, teachers, parents, and more.
How do I make sure I’m not overprotective?
It’s a balance. Keep safety in mind, but encourage independence — let them try, fail, and try again. Involve them in decisions about their care and give them ownership of their story.
What financial help is available for children’s prosthetics and equipment?
Are prosthetics fully covered on the NHS (UK)?
Yes – the NHS provides basic limbs, sports or specialist limbs are funded by NHS England’s Child Prosthetics Fund, which can help for certain needs.
Can we get grants for sports limbs or extra help at home?
Yes – charities like:
- The Boparan Charitable Trust
- Elifar Foundation
- The ACT Foundation offers funding for equipment, adaptations, and assistive tech.
What about travel costs for hospital visits?
You may qualify for NHS Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme or support via local councils or charities. Keep all receipts and ask your hospital about options.
Are there any support groups for parents of amputees?
Is there someone I can talk to who’s been through this?
Yes – many organisations offer parent-to-parent support. Steel Bones, Reach, and LimbPower all offer family-friendly communities.
Are there any family-friendly amputee meetups, camps, or charities?
Yes! Look out for:
- Steel Bones Celebration Day and local activities
- LimbPower Games (kids & families)
- Reach Family Weekend (for children with upper limb differences)
Telephone
03333 606930
Address
Isleham Business Park, Hall Barn Road, Isleham
Cambs CB7 5QZ
hello@steelbone.co.uk
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