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Building Common Ground

Sometimes the most powerful advocacy begins with a conversation.

When parents, healthcare providers, educators, and other caregivers share a common understanding, children with CHD benefit. This growing library of conversation starters translates research into practical, evidence-informed resources that support meaningful conversations and stronger partnerships.

Whether preparing for a medical procedure, navigating school, or supporting your child's emotional well-being, Building Common Ground offers sharable resources to help encourage communication. New resources will be added regularly as the library grows, creating a trusted place where families and professionals can learn from one another.

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When Needle Fear Becomes More Than Typical Anxiety

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When fear of shots, blood draws, or medical procedures becomes more than typical anxiety, parents and providers may wonder what to do next. This evidence-informed conversation starter explains how repeated medical experiences can shape a child's response to healthcare and offers practical strategies to reduce distress, build trust, and support children with congenital heart disease.
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Understand Learning in Children with CHD

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Does your child with congenital heart disease seem bright but still struggle at school? This evidence-informed conversation starter helps families and school teams understand how CHD can affect learning, attention, executive functioning, and behavior—and how working together can lead to more effective school supports.
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Emotional Well-Being in Children with CHD

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Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) may experience emotional challenges that are easy to overlook or misunderstand. This evidence-informed conversation starter helps families and mental health professionals better understand emotional well-being in CHD and work together to provide thoughtful, compassionate support.
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When Families See the Same Child with CHD Differently

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Families don't always see their child with CHD in the same way, especially if concerns arise. One person may want to protect hope, while another wants to seek understanding. This conversation starter explores why these differences arise, how CHD adds unique context, and how curiosity can help families make thoughtful decisions together.
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When Your Child with CHD is Upset: A Conversation With Yourself

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When your child is upset, what happens inside you? This conversation starter helps parents of children with CHD start a conversation with themselves. Explore the thoughts, emotions, fears, and past experiences that may shape your reactions to your child's distress. Consider how curiosity, self-awareness, and trust in your child's resilience can create space for both of you to experience difficult emotions.
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