September 21, 2024

Quote of the Week

"Sometimes even the greatest joys bring challenge, and children with special needs inspire a very, very special love." - Sarah Palin

Kids With Special Needs: 8 Parents Share Their Stories

"She’ll play soccer, he’ll have a little sister to play with, we’ll go on family camping trips… All parents-to-be dream about their future child. But when a child is born with a disability or illness, or has a speech or developmental disorder, the family must adjust and learn to live with other people’s perceptions.
In addition to the worry and anguish brought on by their child’s condition, parents have to deal with regular medical appointments, complicated forms, and a lack of resources. Some choose to work less or to leave their jobs altogether in order to care for their child, which can put a strain on finances. And, because children with disabilities require a lot of attention, couples wind up having less time for their other kids. In the end, every aspect of a family’s personal, social, and professional life comes to revolve around the needs of a single child.

But even this cloud has its silver lining. There are the small victories, protective siblings, amazing support networks—and, of course, oodles of love for this child and all the pride that comes with watching them grow and integrate into society!

To better understand what these families go through, we asked eight parents of special-needs children to tell us about one aspect of their lives. While each family’s experience is unique, the parents all have one thing in common: a devotion to ensuring the happiness and well-being of their child. Here are their stories." - [read more]

Reading Corner

Title: Masterpiece: an inclusive kids book celebrating a child on the autism spectrum (The Incredible Kids)

By: Alexandra Hoffman

Ages: all ages

"Masterpiece is an inclusive story featuring Samuel, a boy on the autism spectrum who sees the world differently than his peers. When Samuel's teacher asks his class to create a piece of art, it quickly becomes apparent that his beautiful way of looking at the world makes him a true masterpiece!

Throughout the story, the other students in his class learn lessons of empathy, understanding and acceptance. The colourful illustrations will delight children and Masterpiece may just become a family favourite." - Publishers

Be the Change

As a society, when we embrace our differences, visible or invisible, it allows for a very different kind of compassion to emerge, that becomes a catalyst to bridge our shared sense of humanity. This week, try talking to your children, about what different means. And how would you show up for all that is 'different' and how can you find the silver linings hidden in plain sight?