Special Needs Families

It’s just another Manic Monday and my idea for today might scare you a little bit. I think it makes sense to reach out to other special needs families in your area. I know it can be tricky and that the friendships might not work for everyone in your family, but there can be huge rewards if (and when) it works out.

Be prepared that this might be awkward at first. Some families with special needs kids don’t get invited or included very often. And, just like your kiddo, they may need some accommodations to make it work. But over time, you will start to reap some big benefits.

First, you have set a good example for your own kids to be includers. Second, you will be building a community of people who truly get it. They understand when you need to leave early or if you must cancel at the last minute, just as you understand when these things happen for them. The kids will have more friends. The adults may become friends and a true support system for each other. Or they may just enjoy the social time for their kids and decide to be friendly with the other parents. Either way, parents can share resources and ask each other more sensitive questions (that may seem too much for broader social settings).

Connect with the special needs families near you for myriad benefits: support, friendship, camaraderie, etc… Take care of each other, my friends.