Discovering that your child has a disability or special needs can be a devastating experience for the parents. They feel lost so as to where to seek information and support. But more than that, they find themselves imprisoned in the situation rather than being in control of it. In-stead of feeling powerless and helpless, parents should know that the real battle is inside. Once they win it, their child will surely be a winner.

Try to think beyond ‘Why me?’: Parents of children with a disability often question ‘what did I do to deserve this’ or ‘why is God doing this to me’. Some may even blame themselves ‘may be I didn’t take good care during pregnancy’ or ‘must have been the outcome of my misdeeds’. Don’t pity
yourself or feel guilty. Once you over-come these negative emotions, you will be empowered to cause miracles in your child’s life.

Get the difference between ‘dis-abled’ and ‘differently-abled’: Parents feel shattered thinking if their child will ever lead a normal life, learn and grow. Children who are autistic, blind, deaf and dumb, have delayed development; go on to do well in their personal and professional lives. Remember, your child is not suffering from a disability but is powered with some different abilities. And only you can help him reach his full potential.

The world is not against your child: At times when people react or comment inappropriately,
parents believe how their child will find a place in this cruel world. But the case may be that the people are confused about what is the proper way to react. Also parents waste their time and energy in how they’ll deal with the reaction of people. Instead direct your energies and concerns towards your child.

Expressing doesn’t mean you are weak: Anger, denial, rejection, express your feelings to your soul mate, your friend or another parent. Parents of so called normal children also go through their ups and downs, why can’t you? Don’t hide your feelings, sharing will help.

Love and enjoy your child: Parenting a child with disability doesn’t mean you have to be un-happy. If you are unhappy, that is what your choice is. And no disability can come in the way of love for
your child. No one is stopping you from celebrating having a child to hug everyday, having someone to nurture and take care of, having someone in your life you can love and who loves you unconditionally.