Every child is unique and requires individualized attention, care, and love. However, when it comes to children with special needs, parents need to put in some more effort and be more patient to meet their kids’ needs. That’s because children with special needs can have difficulties in communication and social interactions or they might have some physical limitations or medical problems.
In this parenting blog, we will explore some of the more common special needs, and shed light on four parenting hacks to make your journey easier.
However, before that, let’s learn a bit more about some of the most common issues that children face.
Down Syndrome
Children with Down Syndrome often have delayed development in the areas of speech, language, physical growth, and motor skills. The genetic condition that arises from an additional chromosome affects cognitive abilities, physical development, and overall health. Children born with Trisomy 21, also have a higher risk for certain medical conditions, such as heart defects and vision and hearing problems.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Children with ASD are often seen having difficulty with social skills, such as making eye contact and understanding social cues. However, based on where they are on the spectrum, they may also have speech, behavioral, and other health issues.
It’s not uncommon to see repetitive behaviors, fixations, and difficulty with transitions in neurodiverse children.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
This neurodevelopmental disorder affects attention and leads to impulsivity and hyperactivity. Kids that are medically diagnosed as being hyperactive struggle when it comes to focusing, organizing, and completing tasks. It’s also harder than it is for other children to regulate themselves, or exercise self-control.
Dyslexia
Over 40 million Americans may be suffering from this learning disorder that affects their ability to read, write, and spell. Children with dyslexia usually show difficulty with phonological processing. This makes it hard to decode words and read fluently, giving them a hard time writing, spelling, and verbally expressing themselves.
Recent studies estimate that one out of six children aged between 3 and 17 in the United States have developmental disabilities. So what can parents do to make their lives a little bit easier on this rocky road called parenting? Let’s see.
Educate Yourself
One of the best things you can do for yourself and your child is to educate yourself about your child’s condition. Learn about the specific challenges they may face, along with treatment options or interventions that may be beneficial. By understanding your child’s needs and abilities, you’ll be in a better position to advocate for them and make informed decisions about their care.
Create a Routine
Routines are important for all children, but they can do wonders for a child with special needs. Providing structure and predictability, helps children feel more secure and in control, and those who don’t do well with transitions, especially benefit. Do allow for some flexibility and changes when needed, perhaps in unprecedented circumstances.
Build a Support Network
Raising a child whose needs are different from others can be draining, and having a support network to turn to can be helpful. Family members, friends, parenting forums and communities, and others with experience in special needs parenting are all good options to lean on.
Parents who have someone to talk to about their challenges and successes are in a better headspace than those who have no one to turn to. Support groups, parenting advice blogs, and online parenting forums are also helpful resources.
Celebrate Small Wins
The journey of parenting a child with special needs can be long and winding, but it’s important to celebrate the small wins along the way. Milestones such as a new word or skill, or even just a good day without any major challenges can be a cause for celebration.
Remember there are no perfect children and no perfect parents! Everyone is just doing their best, and you’re doing great. Another cause for celebration!
Don’t Forget To Schedule Some Self Care In
This isn’t a hack, but while you’re at it, don’t forget to prioritize some self-care. Raising children regardless of their needs can be emotionally and physically draining, and parents need to take some time out for themselves.
Getting quality sleep, pursuing a hobby, or taking on therapy can help you bring your best self to the parenting arena.
As you go through the ups and downs of parenting, there’s a wonderful forum out there that could help. Parenting Questions has a range of wholesome resources along with co-parenting, single parenting, and homeschooling discussion boards. Their online parenting classes and popular parenting blogs bring the best advice from others in similar situations.
Join the conversation here.
About the Author
Sherry Q. has three children, the eldest of which has mild to moderate autism. With the right resources and guidance she has found a balance between giving him what he needs and looking after herself.
