When you have a Special Need Child – What can be your Goal

 

When you have a Special Need Child – What can be your Goal



An Accomplishment that will echo through. Bhavina Patel wins the nation’s first silver in para table tennis at the Tokyo Paralympics, and by the time you all read it, you will hear a lot more. India fields their largest contingent at the Paralympics with 54 athletes competing in nine disciplines.

Bhavya Shah turned visually impaired at the age of 12, due to retinal degeneration and he is a research assistant currently at Stanford University. We can keep adding such outstanding achievements.

One of the biggest challenges is in navigating this type of parent-adult child relationship. Parenting children with special needs is one of the most challenging sacrifices parents have to go through. The members of a family with special needs face several different challenges that might seem unimaginable to those who come from normal families. In the case of an adult child with special needs, a longer period of support may be required before a transition to independence. Some adult children with special needs may always need support, but it should be tailored to their needs and with their goals for independence in mind.

Separating your child from his mental and physical illness. “Behind the mood swings, combative behaviour, disabilities and tantrums, there is a beautiful soul that still needs compassionate care.

To quote, “Just because I can’t walk, doesn’t mean I can’t play!” – From the Heart



 

Parents of Kids with Special Needs Should Keep in mind the following:

1)   You are not alone.

There may not be anyone else with the same constellation of symptoms as your child but there are people with similar challenges.

 

2)    Being a parent is hard. Being a parent to a child with extra needs is extra hard.

It can also be extra rewarding. Make you extra passionate. With the challenges come the rewards. Sometimes you may have to search your heart for the rewards, but they are there if you look for them.

 

3)    Don’t let typical parents get you down.

I know how hard it is to hear from parents that their child six months younger than yours is walking and yours isn’t. Or dealing with the well-meaning stranger who asks why your 2-year-old is not able to walk yet. Don’t allow it to distract you and lose your focus.

 

4)   Celebrate the little things! Keep your sense of humour

 

Though each day is a challenge for you, don’t miss out on the chance of acknowledging even the smallest gain from your child, may be independent sitting or first babbling or first step towards walking. Not necessary everything needs to be perfect.

 

5)    


Forgive yourself. You won’t always get it right.

 

“Some of the most wonderful people are the ones who don’t fit into boxes.” ~ Tori Amos

 

Try and look out for abilities of your child. Challenge yourself and encourage to get the best from your child. Explore possibilities and don’t be afraid to fail.

 

6)     You too deserve to be cared for. Make time for yourself.

When your child has special needs, handing over responsibility can be a real challenge. You might feel as if you are the only person who can do the job, and doubt that anyone else could meet all of your child's needs. But remember, you are not superhuman. There is only so much you can give before you will feel mentally, emotionally, and physically drained. That is why it is necessary to take breaks from time to time. You also might consider asking for help from extended family, friends or neighbours, and giving them the training they may need to care for your child.

7)   Trust your instincts.

You know your children best. Doctors, teachers, therapists are all fantastic resources and experts in their areas, you are the expert on your child.

Learning that your child has a disability or illness is just the beginning of the journey. At times, you may feel overwhelmed by the challenges associated with disability and by the strength of your own emotions. And while you may feel alone and isolated, there are many supports available. Other parents can be invaluable sources of help and information. Services are also available through public agencies that can assist your entire family—early intervention services for infants and toddlers and educational services for pre-schoolers and school-aged children. Having access to information and supports may be critical in maintaining a stable and healthy family life.

Remember “Parents of children with special needs create their own world of happiness and believe in things that others cannot yet see”

By

Dr. Mona Shah

Occupational Therapist, Clinical Psychologist.

 


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