Do you know your parental rights?

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Take this quiz:

https://parentalrights.org/quiz/

Sadly, I’ve been a midwife long enough to see firsthand the abuse of power over parental rights. In the US if a medical provider believes their medical recommendation is superior the parent’s belief about what is best for the child, the medical provider has authority to remove the child from their parents. This happens disproportionately more to those in poverty, black families, and in families with an individual who has disabilities.

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You know what’s best

for your child and family

How can you protect your family?

  1. Research your family’s providers to find someone who aligns with your beliefs. You may be more vulnerable if you choose an alternative vaccine schedule, homeschool, or choose to give birth outside of a hospital, so find a provider who is familiar with these things. Local Facebook communities are often a good place to find recommendations

    2. Dress to impress. If you need to take your child to the hospital, you will be treated differently depending upon your outfit. Try to wear something clean and professional. You are more likely to be treated poorly if you look young, avoid adolescent clothing.

    3. Build community. Find a community of people who support you. Should you take your child in after they bumped their head? Is the illness worth a trip to the doctor? It’s great to have another experienced parent or nurse friend you can talk to who can give you perspective when you’re not sure what to do because you are in the trenches of new parenting or you’re emotional because it’s your child.

    4. Don’t go by yourself. Bring your partner, parent, sibling, doula, or friend who is a medical professional. It’s really hard and scary to have a child who needs medical attention. Going with someone who can support you, listen to staff with you, and help you navigate medical decisions can be invaluable. They can also help you avoid defensive language.

    5. Use negotiation skills and don’t be afraid to speak up for what you want. You are the best decision maker for your child! Thankfully the vast majority of healthcare physicians believe that and will support you in your decision making!

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