You can be a great parent to your special needs child. And you can support them in their needs, while also taking care of your own.
The knowledge that your child has special needs can affect you in many different ways. The confirmation of a diagnosis may bring you some comfort, or you may be shocked.
Either way, your mind immediately starts racing with all of the changes this will bring to your life, and your child’s life. You want to create a game plan, and feel that you have a handle on this development. And, more than anything, you want your child to be okay.
You may find yourself reflecting on your (previously unconscious) expectation of a “normal child,” or wondering if you did something wrong. And those thoughts may fill you with shame. But they have no bearing on your quality as a parent. Nor do they say anything about your love for your child. These are just natural responses to the new reality facing you.
As a parent, you may be going through any one of several stages of adjustment. They are:
Similar to the stages of grief, all of these are valid emotions. They may be necessary for you to experience in order to reach your new normal. Try to be understanding with yourself as you navigate these changes in your life.
Similar to the stages of grief, all of these are valid emotions. They may be necessary for you to experience in order to reach your new normal. Try to be understanding with yourself as you navigate these changes in your life.
And the whole family may worry how this will change day to day life. These concerns can include how other people will treat your special needs child, how you will find the time to meet your child’s needs, and how you’ll handle negative financial effects.
But remember that you are not less of a parent for struggling. And your family can learn to work together. Your adjustment may take time, but building a solid support system can be a great help to you and your family.
This will be a process, but it is one that you and your family can work through together!
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