Advice for the Special Needs Parent on Halloween
Today can be one of those days that can cause parents of children with special needs to take pause.
To lose their breath for a second.
To take notice of differences.
To even feel slighted.
Halloween.
For me, in those early years post diagnosis, I took comfort living in our own comfortable bubble. But days like Halloween, pulled us out.
And pushed us away at the same time.
We were not like the other families. We still are not. And that can sting sharply or even in a dull way, depending where you are in your journey.
There will be no shortage of advice on the internet today from parents like you and me.
Some will scold you for feeling slighted.
Some will understand and wrap you in a virtual hug.
Others will give you advice or even tell you not to care.
Me, well, I’ll tell ya this.
Give yourself grace on these big holidays. Your kiddo may refuse to wear a costume or leave the house.
Or at age 9, after experiencing it all in the years before, they may willingly agree to go to 4 houses, not 5, but 4, and even clap when you talk about their costume.
Our day won’t look anything like our neighbors. We educate and we try. That’s the best we can do.
And I will feel. So will his dad. Whether it’s 3 seconds or an hour. And that’s allowed.
Grace my friends. Forget about everyone else. Focus on you and what you feel on days like today and most importantly doing what works for your child.
Celebrate what your family can do!
Find the joy anyway you can. And remember, you are doing the best you can in a complicated situation. No one should judge you for that.
Happy Halloween!
Wish us luck!
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.
