10 Commandments for Parents of Special Needs Children

[Guest guest]

Hi All,

I just received this on another list. I thought it was appropriate for us,

especially the last one!

Sue

10 Commandments for Parents of Special Needs Children

a. Take one day at a time, and take that day positively. You don't have

control over the future, but you have control over today.

b. Never underestimate your child's potential. Allow him, encourage

him, and expect him to develop to the best of his abilities.

c. Find and allow positive mentors: parents and professionals who can

share with you their experience, advice and support.

d. Provide and be involved with the most appropriate educational and

learning environments for your child from infancy on.

e. Keep in mind the feelings and needs of your spouse and your other

children. Remind them that this child does not get more of your love

because he gets more of your time.

f. Answer only to your conscience: then you'll be able to answer to

your child. You need not justify your actions to your friends or the

public.

g. Be honest with your feelings. You can't be a super-parent 24 hours a

day. Allow yourself jealousy, anger, pity, frustration, and depression in

small amounts whenever necessary.

h. Be kind to yourself. Don't focus continually on what needs to be

done. Remember to look at what you have accomplished.

i. Stop and smell the roses. Take advantage of the fact that you have

gained a special appreciation for the little miracles in life that others

take for granted.

j. Keep and use a sense of humor. Cracking up with laughter can keep

you from cracking up from stress.