Special Needs Parenting
Special needs parenting isn’t something that God only calls special moms to do. It’s not “hero parenting” or a life sentence to trials. Special needs parenting is as unique as every fingerprint. It can include parenting a child with a rare disorder or a child who needs some extra help with his/her speech. So why do we differentiate the special needs mom from the mom who doesn’t have any children with health concerns? It might be that we like to find similarities between us, that we find encouragement when we share experiences with someone who’s traveled similar steps as our own, or perhaps it’s comforting to laugh (and cry) with someone who understands that our “normal” doesn’t feel very reasonable.
Are you a Special Needs Parent?
If yes, then you’re in the right place. This space offers friendship between moms who share their faith through their experiences. The notes shared on the pages that follow are written by myself and other special needs parents. Each of us shares openly as we navigate the often unexpected turns in motherhood. However, as I look back I see a common theme between each article, God is faithful, capable, and kind. If you need help advocating for a special needs child, want resources for parenting special needs kids, or have questions for other special needs moms then scroll through the articles below.
Maybe you Know a Special Needs Parent.
A friendship between moms is a precious gift that none of us should underestimate. Yet, friendships with a special needs mom can be tricky. It’s not always comfortable or convenient to be our friend. We’re often called a special needs parent, but what most of us would like you to know about us is that we’re not much different from you. We are determined moms, tired moms, and busy moms who are doing our best to show up every day, just like you. Yes, our days, and nights, might look much different but Learn how to support and love those who live “normal” different than you.
Supporting the Special Needs Mom
If you’d like to chat with other special needs moms one on one, make sure you sign up for our private support group. Use the sign-up form that pops up on the bottom of this page or use our contact page if you’re having trouble. I’ll make sure you get the information you need.
Until our next chat,
Mrs. Joseph Wood
Duchenne Awareness Day
On Sept. 7th families all across the world are observing Duchenne Awareness day. But if you were to ask any of us, we'd tell you it's not just awareness we're after; what we want is a cure. If you've never heard of Duchenne, also known as DMD, you're not alone....
7 ways to help parents of special needs children
7 ways to help parents of special needs children When a crisis or abrupt change of life occurs, it can be difficult to express our needs. It's no different for parents with special needs children. Depending on the needs of our child, we may get better at navigating...
When your friend doesn’t have a child with special needs.
Last week we talked about how to be a friend when your friend has a special needs child. This week, I want to turn the table and encourage all of us who have friends who don't share our same experiences. Friends or family who may not understand our child's behavior,...
When your friend has a child with special needs
I sit listening to the giggles and imagination play from across the room. My granddaughter, Miss Emmy, and Danny Boy (my youngest son who has special needs) are playing. I can hear the exchange of ideas between the two of them. As I peek around my desk, I see Emmy...
Special Needs Parenting: 10 things I wish everyone knew
Special needs parenting is messy. You can have it all together one moment, be on top of all the appointments, changes in medication, activity schedule, insurance issues and then... BAM! You discover you're not on top of any of it. As a special needs mom, I'm baffled...
The Importance of Touch | Building Healthy Relationships
I looked into the small bassinet and saw a beautiful baby girl crying to be touched. The new momma was laying in her bed staring out the window. Softly I asked, "Can I pick up your baby for you?" She replied, "No. I don't want to spoil her" I began asking questions...
Help for picky eaters| Stop the food fight
As a mother of 11 children, you can imagine that I've heard just about every excuse for not eating new or healthy food! I've had many moms come to me in exasperation saying, I need help for my picky eaters. As with all parenting, we must remember that we can't...
Intentional Life: How To Maximize Ordinary Moments
Living an intentional life requires us to maximize ordinary moments. Maybe you're like me, and your mind instantly starts to race with all the details of work required when we're optimizing anything in life. If that's the case, take heart! Today's post isn't about...
Should I give my child an allowance? Financial Responsibility
"Should I give my child an allowance?" asked the woman behind the counter. Her question caught me off guard; it's not a typical question for strangers to discuss. An allowance is a regular parenting topic that we all address at one time or another. Many of us have...