I have come up with a few “gifts” our Special Needs child continues to teach us, for us it is Autism , many others have a different need at home with their child(ren) , but we all gain strength and give strength in all we do every day!
There is NO such thing as a small thing when you have a child that does it “differently”.
Everything is monumental when your Special Needs child does it.
These are some of the gifts that come our way daily!
Perspective– daily, actually- hourly ,awareness that there is so much more to think about that really matters. ( ex; crossing a street when the light is green. )
Flexibility- Don’t rely on your “plan”. A special needs child doesn’t really grasp that and being flexible is what really matters.
Assertiveness/Advocacy – I will be and am the VOICE for our son. He cannot yet do this and needs to know he is protected. This has also led to confidence– speaking publicly no longer holds the same fear for me!
“Rules” are different for kids. Although we have expectations fro our son, the way he does it may not be the same way that our “typical” kids do it. ( typical is in quotes because that is another whole piece for me to write)
Appreciation– for all he teaches us daily, for the gifts he gives us daily, for the way he sees things and the balance he provides
Creativeness – in a moments notice, you can find a way to get something done and even make it fun!
Patience – Not only for our child, but more so for those around us who are so unaware.( nice word for ignorant )
Trust your gut – it is hardly ever wrong
It is ok to ask for help ( I have not yet mastered this one) , but it is hard and it is tiring.
Education- Not only in schools, but in our everyday life. So many need this to help learn and be clued into our days. Words hurt, but the looks and expressions can be just as painful, if not more.
ASK us if you are not sure , reserve judgement. Be kind. Not all Special Needs children “look” a certain way.
If you have others you would like to add, I would love to hear.
Carissa Garabedian
Mom to 12 year old on the Autistic Spectrum.
