Having a kid with a disability might sound daunting and scary. Here are some tips on how to parent a kid with special needs.
Talking Points:
- Raise your kids to recognize that the world doesn’t revolve around them. Having a disability can make a kid the center of attention wherever they go. Help them stay humble and independent.
- Be careful about patronizing your kid. Find ways for them to actually contribute instead of giving them proverbial “participation trophies.” This will do more for their self-worth than empty praise.
- Treat your disabled teenager like a teenager. If you want your kid to learn to live independently with their disability, they need to be pushed to do so just like an able-bodied kid.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What was your first reaction when you found out that your child had special needs? Explain.
- What are some of the joys of having a child with special needs?
- What unique challenges does your child/family face?
- Why is it important to let your kids struggle – special needs or not?
- How can you help your special needs child have a healthy view of themselves?
- What are some ways your special needs child can legitimately contribute to the family?
- Is your special needs child growing into an independent adult? Explain.
- What have you learned about yourself as a parent of a special needs child?
- What would be your advice to parents who have learned that their child has special needs?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
