Counseling and Support

All caregivers want their child to develop a positive self-image, have the same opportunities as others, and mature into a well-adjusted, productive adult. Caregivers of children with clefts share these same hopes and dreams, but are often left wondering whether their child may ever reach these goals. It is essential that children with clefts receive support from their families, friends, and trained providers as needed to ensure that they develop the self-esteem and confidence they deserve. It is no less important that parents and caregivers have their own community of support.

Around the world, there are groups dedicated to supporting cleft-affected children and families. Some are led by specialists and specific organizations, while others are spearheaded by the cleft community itself. Some offer in-person activities such as cleft camps, while others are virtual, such as closed Facebook groups. They each have their own personality and strengths, so it is important for families to explore them all to see which is best for their needs.

Caregivers and Family Resources

• Facebook: A Cleft Mommy's Bond Of Friendship Etc.
• Wide Smiles: Cleft And Palate Resource
• Cleftline: Community Support
• Cleftopedia: For Mommies By Mommies
• Scholarly Article: Insights From Parents About Caring For A Child With Birth Defects
• International Journal On Environment Research And Public Health: Insights From Parents About Caring For A Child With Birth Defects
• CLAPA: Parents

Resources for Cleft-Affected Families

• Cleftline: Help With Social Situations
• Cleft New Zealand: Moving On
• American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association: Support For Individuals

Financial Assistance

Depending on where you live, clefts surgeries and other comprehensive cleft care can be expensive. Smile Train provides financial support to cleft teams across 75+ countries so they have resources to provide free care. Please speak directly to a partner cleft team near you to see if you qualify for grant assistance.