Being a parent is hard but parenting a child with special needs can be especially difficult. A special needs child is any child that needs care above and beyond that of traditional parenting and education. This could be physical, cognitive, or emotional needs that make it difficult for them to interact, learn, etc. and thus require special accommodations.
If you’re the parent of a child with special needs, then you’re worried about their future and not only how they’ll do during school, but throughout their life. We’ll help you understand your role as a special needs parent and how you can best support your child.
Understand Your Child’s Issues
There are many reasons why a child has special needs such as problems with a physical impairment that require wheelchairs and other enablement materials. There could be a cognitive impairment that makes learning difficult or other factors such as autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. It could be a mix of both cognitive and physical issues.
Regardless of why they require special needs, you need to understand everything about the disease or issue causing the impairment. Read books, talk to your doctor’s and reach out to parents with similar issues and learn everything you can about the disease or illness and what you can do to provide the best opportunities for your child.
A child with special needs is still a child and you want them to be happy and safe. The best way for you to do that is to understand the issues and how you can help your child physically, socially, and emotionally cope with their issues and give them the best chance at success.
You’ll find raising a child with special needs to be a roller coaster ride of emotions. There will be unbelievable highs and devastating lows as you watch your child grow through the years. Understanding their needs and the root of their impairment can help you navigate these ebbs and flow.
Patience Is Essential in Dealing with Special Needs Children
Parents are stressed out at the best of times, but when you add to the mix the needs and temperament of a special needs child, it can make it far more stressful. Special needs children may become agitated because they are unable to do something or be unable to communicate their needs effectively.
There might be something environmental that is triggering unease and they lash out through crying or anger. They may become violent or embarrass you in public. For a parent, this can be incredibly frustrating.
You’re already stressed from taking care of a child, doctor’s appointments, physical therapist’s appointments, social interaction, and more. It’s important to remember that many times your child can’t control their situation and they’re just as stressed and frustrated as you are.
Do your best to be patient through the fits, shutdowns, and difficulties your child faces. If you find yourself losing your patience, then walk away for a few minutes to collect yourself.
Celebrate the Good Times
It’s easy to focus on the negative aspects of parenting a special needs child, but we can’t forget that there are many joys. It’s important not only for you but also for the child to celebrate milestones. If your child has had difficulty reaching a milestone or performing an activity and they finally do, then make them feel amazing for reaching it.
This not only puts your child in a great mood and makes them feel accomplished, but it is emotionally cathartic to you. When you’re a parent with a special needs child, you get a lot of negative information thrown at you.
Doctors and teachers telling you about what they can’t do. Children being mean or disrespectful to your child. The stares when you go out in public. These are all things parents deal with and it’s easy to focus on them.
Never forget that your child is amazing and beautiful no matter what their issue is. Take the time to celebrate achievements because every one is like climbing a mountain and reaching the top.
Self-Care is Important for Parenting a Child with Special Needs
Parents of special needs children focus all their attention on the child. They’re your world. It seems like never-ending meetings, fears about their future, stress over medical bills, stress from your child and it can take its toll.
You need to be at your best when working with your child, so don’t forget that you’re a person as well. Parents of special needs children have all the stress and worries of regular parenting and your child’s special needs.
Parents of special needs children become depressed and forlorn. It’s important to take the occasional break and have some time for yourself. Have one parent stay at home while you have a spa day or go out with friends.
Being a special needs parent is like running a marathon. You need to take a slow and steady pace or else you’ll be too exhausted.
Prepare for Their Future
No parent wants to think about the day your child will no longer have you in their lives. You need to start early and begin making preparations for the adult life of your special needs child. They may be able to live on their own, they may require assisted living or need the services of a special needs facility.
You can help them by starting a special needs trust that provides for their future. It makes sure your special needs child is taken care of when you’re gone and can help pay for their facilities, medical care, and much more.
A special needs child turns into a special needs adult and preparing for their future gives you peace of mind.
Enjoy Your Special Needs Child
Parenting a child with special needs isn’t easy. There’s going to be fun times and difficult times, but always treasure your child for the gift they are. You are a great parent, so follow these rules and have the best life you can.
If you would like to learn more about raising a child with special needs, then please explore our site.
