All parents respond to challenges on a daily basis. However, in families where a child has a developmental disability, challenges can escalate to overwhelming levels. To manage them successfully, on a daily basis, we need a philosophy for managing the disability itself.
Winter brings an abundance of outdoor activities that families can participate in together - from building a snow fort in the backyard, to skiing down the slopes. However, if your child has special needs, it can also be a time of concern as you wonder how your child might adapt to the change in seasons and activities.
Raising a child with a special need certainly has its ups and downs. An impending birthday party, either for your child or a peer, can be a roller coaster ride of emotions for both you and your child. Will anybody show up? Will my child be able to participate? Will my child have a meltdown? These concerns are all natural, but with creative planning and realistic expectations, your child can be a part of the fun.
My definition of a playdate is a desperate attempt by the stay-at-home caretaker to connect with persons speaking full sentences. Most likely, this will be unsuccessful due to constant interruptions by tattling, potty accidents and eerie silence. For stay-at-home moms or dads, the playdate is essential to our sanity.
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