Positive Parenting: You Are Your Child's Rock

Are you raising a special-needs child? Moreover, are you a single parent to a special-needs child? If so, take a deep breath, because you're not alone.

It can be the most rewarding yet challenging experience, especially if your little one was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease or even one of the autism spectrum disorders.

No parent is ever ready to hear this sort of news, and many choose not to accept it. But as a parent you are your child’s rock—his or her strongest foundation. You have to be.  Curveballs such as autistic spectrum disorder can easily make you feel inadequate as a parent, causing you to unnecessarily blame yourself for something that you had no control over. 

As a parent, it is your divine right to provide for, protect, nurture and be your child’s advocate and foundation. There will be times when the world tests you as a parent, be it through teachers, bullies or a host of other obstacles. But you must press on and fight for your child, because no one else will. 

Parent needs to be aware of any patterns in special-needs children, such as behavioral patterns—behavior is also a form of communication.  

Realize that any “special need” that your child has is gift and not a disability, and with your guidance he or she can touch the world. No one ever said that parenting was easy—to be a positive parent is to be your child's hero.

When combating a challenge, know that there is more than one way to teach, learn and do things. Be proactive in encouraging teachers of this by giving them a gentle reminder.

Remember that you are your child’s first teacher and best role model. With you in their lives, the sky is the limit.