To fall back on!
Parents of children with special needs are often faced with a continuous set of challenges ranging from societal pressure, financial strain or just simply burning out. Over time, if these circumstances are not addressed and relief is not found, a cognitive and sometimes biological change may start to take place.
It is important for parents to connect with a support system where they can learn from experiences of parents who have been there before and understand how they handled the circumstances both emotionally and socially.
Why a Support system?
It is helpful as families in similar situations share their experiences and decisions on many aspects including:
their child’s education and growth
choices about special education classes, requesting additional school support and educational assistants
effectiveness (or not) and side effects (if any) of a particular medicine or a special diet that may be required for the child
Many parents share that connecting with other parents of children with special needs is a huge area of support. Sometimes it is nice to connect with people who live in similar circumstances, because they simply understand and you do not need to explain anything. It also becomes a lot easier to set up social outings and play dates. There is less reason to feel self-conscious or worried about behaviours or meltdowns and such.
With the advent of social media and the world of technology we live in today help is at the end of your fingertips. Reach out and find your support system today if you don't already have one.
And of course, don't forget, when you are a seasoned special parent and have built up enough experiences yourself, sharing that story will brighten up the faces of so many others who are looking for little tips, hopeful stories and words of encouragement