NURSING CARE TO MOTHERS/CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN/ADOLESCENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS: COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AND PLAYFUL ACTIVITIES

Abstract

Aim: to promote actions such as recreational activities and complementary therapies in a health promotion perspective in the care to mothers/caregivers of children/adolescents with special health care needs by means of an extension project. Method: case studies of an extension project developed in an Association of Parents and Friends of the Mentally Ill, with mothers/caregivers of children/adolescents with special needs. The adopted method was the operating group, through recreative activities and complementary therapies, in a total of 13 meetings. Results: the bonding, group integration, verbal and non-verbal self expression, increased self-esteem, self-care and personal appreciation. There was satisfaction from the offered activities, observed by evaluation methods. Conclusions: work is a link between theory and practice and contributes to the exchange of knowledge and experience between academics and health professionals, in particular nursing with society, building bonds and favoring care.