This Journey Our Life: 31 Days of Support—Day 22: Learning from Others in the special needs {parenting} community

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Read 31 Days of Support in Your Special Needs Parenting Journey from the beginning, here.

Cami’s primary disability is visual impairment, but this past June we received another diagnosis.

Some people might be skeptical of her newest diagnoses, but in my personal observations of her it was clear there were other underlying issues.

How did I know?

Because I’m her mom.

Remember: no one knows your child better than you.

I had the opportunity to meet Eustacia Cutler this past April and appreciated that she took the time to speak with me, offering advice from one mom to another. I was encouraged by what she told me:

“Never forget that you are the expert on your child! You keep learning and researching and don’t take no for an answer—you tell them what your child needs.” ~as spoken to me by Eustacia Cutler

Does this mean you shouldn’t seek an official diagnosis? Absolutely not. I despise labeling only for the sake of labeling, but sometimes (most of the time, really) labels are necessary to receive the help your child needs, especially when it comes to the special education system, insurance policies or disability resources.

But a diagnosis is only the beginning.

Now that you have some answers to your questions, it’s important to educate and equip yourself for the journey.

There are a variety of ways you can do this from personal research through reading to attending seminars or conferences pertaining to your child’s particular needs.

Another aspect?

Surrounding yourself with parents walking a path similar to your own. As I shared previously, it’s not a competition, and we must reach out to each other along the way.

In reaching out to others, we learn.

Maybe your path will intersect with someone who is farther along in their parenting journey? Or with a fellow parent willing to share the mistakes from which they’ve learned? Perhaps you will establish a friendship with someone whose child has a disability similar to that of your own child’s?

Regardless of the details, what matters most is learning from the personal experiences of other special needs parents.

Throughout this week we’ll hear from several parents, each sharing their perspective of raising a child with special needs.

A special surprise?

A few of them come bearing gifts in the form of a giveaway!

Stay tuned to learn from others walking this journey. Your heart will be blessed and encouraged.

Your Journey: Do you have a personal experience to share, confirming the fact you know your child best? I’d love to hear!

Have an extra minute? Click on a box below to check out a three of my blogging friends also participating in the 31 Days series, hosted by the Nester: