When you have a child with disabilities in Maryland, everything that you do as a parent requires additional time, energy and attention. This takes a toll emotionally and physically.
Don’t expect anything to be simple
Everyday events like going to the grocery store and running errands can become a major struggle for the parents of kids with special needs. There will be days when it’s a major accomplishment just getting everyone into the car and buckled in.
Having children with disabilities includes additional logistics to figure out – things that most parents don’t usually think twice about. Your parenting journey, for instance, will likely involve extra travel to get to the places where your child’s needs are accommodated.
You can do yourself a big favor by simply expecting things to take longer than you might first anticipate. When you give yourself extra time, it’s easier to have fun with the process and make a game out of it. It’s a good way of staving off the temptation to drag your feet and grind your teeth the whole way through. Otherwise, your child may begin to notice and start to imitate that behavior.
Take joy in the little things
Make sure to spend your energy carefully and strategically, and allow yourself some time to unplug and recharge. Trying to grin and bear everything often results in being crushed by the responsibility and strain.
Even if it’s only a small ritual, do little things for yourself that help you get through the day. And once in a while, go ahead and give yourself permission to hire a sitter.
Don’t lose touch with your friends, either. You’ll definitely need them throughout this experience. Look for like-minded parents who are going through similar things. It’s a major life-saver having someone to listen to you and make you feel understood.
With the right tools and techniques, providing for a child with disabilities is possible to manage, and you can do it too. The journey will make it all the more rewarding once you find an equilibrium and see the life you’ve been able to provide for your amazing child.