Parenting a child with exceptional needs can be challenging. I know; I am a parent of an exceptional child. As a mom, I’ve found it necessary to give myself room to breathe, draw closer to God, replenish and pull myself together. I cannot be of much use to or support for my child when I am running on or close to empty. Below are some practical steps I am using and I suggest you consider as a parent of a child with exceptional needs. Remember, you have exceptional needs, too.
Get outside
Even if it’s while your kid is in therapy, step outside to change up the scenery. Waiting rooms can be so dull and your mood will soon mimic your surroundings.
If it’s a sunny day, then that’s a bonus. There are studies about how the sun can boost your serotonin which improves your mood. So, go soak it up – even if it’s just a few minutes at a time.
And if the sun is nowhere to be found? Go outside anyway. Breathe some fresh air.
Educate yourself about your child’s special needs
Knowledge provides understanding. I found that the more I learned about my child’s special needs the more confident I felt about how to help him cope, handle situations and advocate for him. I was a more effective caregiver. Check out these free online course. https://alison.com/topic/learn/124456/child-development-learning-outcomes?utm_source=alison_user&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_campaign=13755998. https://alison.com/topic/learn/70565/teachers-responsibilities-for-special-education?utm_source=alison_user&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_campaign=13755998
Get support
Develop or join a network of parents who have children with exceptional needs. Connect with a Bible-believing Church. Ask your child’s occupational therapist or physician for ideas or contacts. Many parents of children with special needs share that they feel isolated. If you haven’t already connected with a support group, be sure to do so to discover a host of services, providers, and information for local families. https://www.jamdeaf.org.jm/, http://www.jaid.org.jm/home.html, http://themicocarecentre.org/, https://jcpdja.com/,https://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2016/01/14/10-special-needs-organizations-you-should-know-about/,
Ask for help
Tell your family and close friends how you feel. You are the primary caregiver, and parenting a child with special needs is emotionally and physically taxing. Others probably don’t have any idea how you are feeling. Tell them how they can help, like offering a listening ear, or watching your child so that you have time to replenish yourself.
Give yourself personal time
In the form of a walk, prayer, writing in a journal, or some other activity you enjoy. Do this every day.
Take care of you
Make sure you are eating food that is healthy, drinking plenty of water, and getting plenty of sleep.
Pay it forward
Helping others is good for our own mental health and well-being. It is also a great example for our children.
Our Journey 