Holidays can be a tough time for many. Families with special needs children have a little more to figure out and “feel” to get through it all .
With the holidays almost here, so many of us wonder how we will make it all “OK”? Many of us get lost in worry and anxiety with our kids and we forget about appreciating and finding joy in the simple things.
In some families, large gatherings may not be possible due to a child having difficulty with sensory issues or maybe food allergies. This can lead to spending holidays in small gatherings and sometimes feeling excluded. Many parents feel burned out and unable to find any energy for holiday preparations.
We HAVE to find gratitude in what our child(ren) DO give us, and in case you haven’t been reminded, or no one has told you yet, here is my list:
- Our children have and continue to make us better people. We are more patient, we are more sensitive, we are more aware.
- Our children teach us to forgive, that there is no perfect and we learn and grow every day
- Our children show us how to be strong and fight for what is right for them. Many of us have become able to speak publicly ! WHO would have thought that in HS- not my teachers !
- As parents of special needs children, we are also mentally and physically strong .
- We have a “tribe” that do get us and our kids. It may be a small one, but that is ok! There is such strength in knowing who we can turn to.
- We have the “power” to make someone’s day. We have this uncanny sense, and when we see a parent or caregiver, having a bad day , with a single look or smile- we can let them know we understand!
- Our children see things with more simplicity and that helps not only us, but others who get to know them, see how to appreciate such little things.
If this holiday season, you are feeling lonely or left out, if you aren’t going to make the trek to your relatives home miles away- it is ok! You can make the moments matter and make it a great day with those who will be with you.
You can look at this list above and know that not a day goes by that you are not making a difference in a life that matters . Know that you touch so many that never even tell you, just by watching you do what you do every day! Know that those who do know you, admire you and that your child is the truest gift of what matters today and every day.
Cherish what you have and give yourself a hug. I am giving you one too.
