There's nothing wrong with dreaming big for your child. But make the steps in that direction child-sized. Set yourselves up for success by breaking larger goals into more manageable opportunities for accomplishment. The progress will add up fast.
Even the best therapy situation may become a bad fit as your child grows and develops. If progress slows down, your discomfort increases, or the time and money invested no longer seem so worthwhile, it may be time to reassess and make a change.
Wish you had proof that your child has skills that professionals deny -- or that certain educational or therapeutic practices have caused a decline in ability? Videos give a vivid depiction of what you're seeing, one worth thousands of words.
You've probably learned that your child sometimes benefits from a break in the action and some time to regroup. Now, extend that same grace period to yourself. When you feel like you're losing it, go to your peaceful spot and get a grip.
You know from experience when and where your child is likely to have difficulty. Being involved in school, and communicating well with teachers and your child, can head off small problems and make big problems easier to solve.
It's especially important when you don't get what you need from friends and family. But even if you do have help at home, seeking support from those going through the same thing you are gives you some much-needed company on the journey.
Rewards for a certain number of books read can be a good way to motivate reluctant readers. Keep track in a journal, on a wall poster, or with a bookmark that can have holes punched in it, like the cards that give you a free oil change or haircut.
Whether you use a datebook, a computer program, the calendar on your refrigerator, or a legal pad in your office, jot down the whens and whats and hows of every conversation you have with school and medical professionals. Keeping track keeps everyone accountable.
You know how frustrating it can be to parent your child; think of how frustrating it must be for your child to operate in a world that often seems aggressive, unyielding, and nonsensical. Help your child focus on what goes right, and maybe you'll be able to, too.
One of the hardest areas for children with special needs to navigate is the movement from one activity to the next. By allowing extra time, giving extra alerts, and being extra understanding of your child's struggle, you can take the tantrum out of transitions.
