I always say this to a new parent, and I … An employee with 26 weeks of service with the same employer has the right to make a request to work flexibly. What not to say: "I can't believe you give him (insert medicine or medical procedure here). Vielen Dank Ute! Don't say you know how the bereaved parent feels. "What a cute dress your daughter's wearing," or "I love your son's new haircut," or "What lovely manners your little ones have," or "You must be so proud of your daughter" or "Your son has a lovely singing voice." or even if you come right out and ask, "Is it genetic?" 4) You can also praise the parents for how they deal with their child by saying things like: “You sure understand his/her speech better than I do.”  “You know how to make him/her happy.”  “You’re doing a good job with him/her.”  “You do a good job balancing your attention  between him/her and the other kids.”, 5) When you encounter the parents, try to find something positive to say about the child. Instead of blaming moms and dads, recognize their strengths, advises Hartwell-Walker. All rights reserved. If a parent is virtually housebound with a severely disabled child and you live close by, sending them a text every time you nip out to the shops to ask if they need anything can seem like a lifeline. Never say, "She's in a better place now." But otherwise, my family looks much the same as anyone else’s. Friends, acquaintances, family members and complete strangers are remarkably comfortable questioning and commenting on various aspects of our lives. I'm around if you do." This is definitely something not to say to parents of disabled children. Parents with disabilities are those who are raising children and have disorders in a certain aspect for example mental, physical and so on. Syona is ready for her first day of school. Alternative: "You are such a great mom. Every day we face new challenges. ", 8. I had plans to publish one in a few week ago, but I now is a good timing You are very right: the line betweek true empathy and pity is very thin and pity is not helping at all. ", 12. When we’re out of our element, it’s much easier to avoid the situation instead of figuring it out. If they are, listen and learn and maybe ask questions that show them that you’re willing to learn. Try something like: "That sounds like it was a tough decision. Sometimes people notice, stare, and walk away because they just don't know what to say. What not to say: "Have you tried juicing?" Please do realize that parents with children with disabilites hear negative things all the time. All too many times there is neither time nor energy to be a couple. Finding roles with the right number of hours is another barrier to returning or staying in work, with 82 per cent and 77 per cent respectively citing this. What not to say: "My uncle's brother's nephew's cousin has autism, so I know what it's like" or "My nephew's cousin has autism, too. Thanks for pointing it out. 2. The report includes a comprehensive review of the rights of parents with disabilities and their children. And no, I didn't make it up, it was asked of a real actual friend of mine. Remember we're humans, too. Change ), You are commenting using your Twitter account. Alternative: This one just baffles me in its level of rudeness. How to support a parent of a child with special needs. Nothing is more unnatural than children getting sick and dying prior to their parents. Sometimes, parents avoid conversations about a child’s disability. The best gift you can make to a parent of a disabled child is to show empathy. There is more accurate classification of different types of disabilities, basing on disabled parents’ physical and mental condition. 6. It's not hard to change your choice of wording; it just takes a moment to stop and think. Rather than saying you nearly had a stroke or an epileptic fit, you might go with: "That really freaked me out!" means Your unmarried adult Child who is, on and after the date on which insurance would end because of the Child’s age, continuously incapable of self-sustaining employment because of mental or physical handicap; and chiefly dependent upon You for support and maintenance, or institutionalized because of mental or physical handicap. They all need our prayers and support. Look at your child and remind yourself of all the things you are grateful for, and all the reasons your child is easy to love. We all say things we wish we could take back from time to time. Photo: Anchel Krishna . Try to choose phrases like "child who has autism" rather than "autistic child," or "child with a disability" versus "disabled child." Online communities such as the National Autistic Society’s online community can be a great way to connect with other parents and carers while staying at home. "They can't help it, and most times the parents can't control it." While writing it, I had a hard time focusing on things not to say, and kept wanting to suggest alternative options, which is how this article came about. Enlist the help of close friends and family. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Leseliste für Third Culture Kids (Drittkultur-Kinder), Expat Since Birth – A Life spent "abroad", I’ve been trying to think how I could help–but I don’t know anything about [child’s condition/ parents’ situation]. I do think that simple empathy, really felt, and practical support would be valuable to those parents. Instead, start talking just as you would to any other parent. Here are a few hints about what you could say. Become educated about the unique conditions of children you know— such as cerebral palsy, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, autism, etc. Even as young children, we’re able to identify a behavior that is not the norm for our peer group—the one kid in the class who seems … Keeping your child alive – sometimes literally – becomes all consuming. What not to say: "I don't know how you do it. At the moment, […], At the moment our teenagers have term break. ", Alternative: The above statement may be heard as quite condescending when it's reserved only for children who have special needs. As a special needs parent, it seems that people have a desire to comment to me about my children, my parenting, my spiritual beliefs, my life choices and my future plans. Offer to bring food to the hospital and ask what else they need which might include helping with other children at home, … ", Alternative: I suspect most people making this statement are trying to let the parents know that the child seems to be doing very well. 1) For those who are close enough and feel that they have the right to know more, you can ask questions like: “I notice James isn’t talking/walking etc.?”. Note the difference between this and "Juicing cured my gout, maybe it will cure your son's cerebral palsy too. Your parents will be able to help you with this, and always ask your sibling. Maybe a good alternative here would be, "Have you seen the research they've been doing on medical marijuana with children who have epilepsy? Everyone needs companionship and personal support, and parents of children with disabilities are no different. Contributors control their own work and posted freely to our site. But I think a better option from a friend or family member would be: "Do you need any help? Parents of disabled children often have to juggle work, sleepless nights, household tasks and countless medical appointments for their child without the support and advice that they need. June 3, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. UTC . It's not hard to change your choice of wording; it just takes a moment to stop and think. Most of us understand that you didn't mean to be offensive, but we still might be offended nevertheless. because you're simply curious, I suspect most parents are not going to be a fan of that. But this is only one example of the kind of thing people say to the parents of kids with disabilities, and only the starting point for this post on “What Not To Say.” Because remembering her has brought up the memory of so many more things people said that were hurtful–and the experience of other … That doesn't mean it's not hard and doesn't make us sad. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Ute Limacher-Riebold and expatsincebirth with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. A child who isn’t told he has autism may not understand why he struggles with peer relationships. Moms take care of kids, that's sort of the mom thing, right? Sometimes we just need a friend. I’m not speaking here of the jerks, the people who say things intended to be mean. Parents just don't want to hear these. What not to say: "She looks so normal" or "I didn't know anything was wrong with him. or "What new skills has he learned lately?" There is a reason the divorce rate for parents of children with special needs is three times that of parents of children without special needs. What not to say: "He looks fine to me" or "You would never know to look at her.". If you would like to help but you don’t really know how, ask for a hint: “I’ve been trying to think how I could help–but I don’t know anything about [child’s condition/ parents’ situation]. And that their disability is only a small part of what makes them who they are. And like so many other questions and comments, there's a time and a place for it. We know that children are more likely to be bullied when they are vulnerable in some way. And we all react differently to things that are said to us. Many of us have become very aware of people-first language. Like all parents, I love my kid hard and worry about him even harder. ", 10. Let them tell you as much as they want. ", 2. As always, you should just be thoughtful in the words you use. You make beautiful children. ", Alternative: The above comments can come off as very judgmental. ©2021 Verizon Media. I've had more energy since I started juicing -- maybe it would help your son, too." I’m always around in the mornings….”   “If you could use an extra hand going grocery shopping, let me know.”, Be very honest. The teachers are there. That doesn't mean you can't ask me a question or make a comment in front of my child, just that you should, as always, be aware and think before you do so. Alternatively, if a stranger asks the same question while I'm trying 15 pairs of shoes on my son hoping to find one that fits over his brace, I might not be as forthcoming. to disabled children, and their parents, and to those with SEN. page | 8 These duties apply to LAs but, local partners are required to co-operate with the LA in fulfilling these duties. A while ago I wrote a blog about what to say to parents with twins because I am convinced that giving a positive advice about „what to say“ is more helpful than „what not to say“, as it gives you the chance to say the right thing. Nine in 10 parents of disabled children say they do not get the full support they need to care for them safely in a study that revealed some carers had been driven to the brink of suicide. 3)  “What kind of toy would she/he enjoy playing with?” Every question concerning the character of the child and his likes, show that you consider him as a person. Nine in ten (91%) parents of disabled children say finding a job with the right working pattern is a significant barrier to returning to work. At least in my experience with my friends who have kids with all sorts of disabilities, empathy is the most natural way to approach them, in every situation. might go over better. I get it—it can be intimidating to know exactly what to say when you meet a kid with special needs. The law about children is designed to keep a child safe and well and, if necessary, help the child to live with their family by providing suitable services for the child's needs. Part of HuffPost Parenting. 14. I'd love to hang out with your kiddos. ( Log Out /  Alternative: If we're having a heart to heart about my child's difficulties, I'm not going to be insulted if you ask me in a tone of voice that shows respect: "Do they know what caused his challenges?" What to Say to Parents of Very Sick and Terminally Ill Children The mother of a boy with Hunter Syndrome (a terminal condition), says to always put the person before the disability, illness, or … Traditional Dutch games for children: Sjoelbak, Koekhappen en Spijkerpoep, Health care providers all over the world: help to find, add and rate them, Staying home with teens in times of COVID19 #5 Adjust your pace!…, Staying home with teens in times of COVID19 #4 Celebrating Easter in 2020, Staying home with teens in times of COVID19 #3 To plan or not to plan, that’s the question. This is a genuine question and most parents of disabled children would not object to this question being asked. Making an effort to put the child first in our language helps us to remember that these little people are human beings, children, sons, daughters, students, friends, sisters, brothers, athletes, dancers or singers. ", Alternative: I'm not against hearing about natural remedies. If not, please don’t insist. ", 7. I recently posted about what you should never say to the parent of a child with a special need. ", Alternative: I would be fine with: "It sounds like you have a very full plate. That is the hardest, yet most rewarding job I have ever had. By Amy Feinstein. The right to request flexible working for parents and carers of disabled children are the same as parents of non-disabled children. Being a parent or carer of a child with special educational needs and disabilities can be challenging and isolating at the best of times. or "Wow, that really startled me." Compliment us without a reference to our child's challenges. Change ), You are commenting using your Facebook account. I recently wrote an article about 15 things you should never say to a parent of a child who has special needs. might be preferable to many parents. So I try to remember this when I hear adults making statements like the ones above. Define Disabled child. 7 things you SHOULD say to the parent of an autistic child Violet Fenn Tuesday 15 Dec 2015 8:36 am Share this article via facebook Share this article via twitter Share this article via messenger They often have a really hard time and the best is just to listen, to be there, to care. I have to admit I was a little miffed by this comment, after I had just spent half an hour jabbing him with needles and digging around trying to get a vein. A better option might be: "What a cute kiddo, he's got a great smile. She is told by her … You can offer to do some grocery shopping, any practical help is mostly welcome. 9 Things Never to Say to a Parent of a Special Needs Child. Following […], It sounds almost a sacrilege to mention COVID19 and celebrating in the same sentence or title, especially considering those who are struggling right now. This helped a lot. Rocking the Cradle: Ensuring the Rights of Parents with Disabilities and their Children, published by the federal National Council on Disability in 2012, is a must-have resource for parent advocates. By Sharon Eicher. Parents need time together and with the baby, and they need to know their other kids are attended to. 10. What not to say: "He's one of God's special angels. If you ask, we won’t ask you to do anything you can’t do.We might not need help, but the thought matters. The following suggestions can help parents become more involved: Before attending an IEP or IFSP meeting, make a list of things you want your child to learn. Jul 6, 2015 Courtesy of Amy Feinstein. While I truly believe most people who say things like that mean well, perhaps what would be more helpful than a list of “what not to say” is a list of “what to say.” If you have a friend who parents a child with a disability, here are 12 comments every parent wants to hear. Change ), You are commenting using your Google account. I bet they keep you busy. Parents look to teachers and principals to be experts. As I worked on these ideas, I learned there are times, places and relationships where many of the following comments and questions are welcome and completely acceptable. Ask Blaming Others for the Learning Disability . ", 9. Trying to make sense of loss in these ways can make the grieving parents feel like you're minimizing their child's death. Knowing how to work with parents of students with special needs is just as important as knowing how to help the students. Those people are heartless and lost and bummer for them because how sad, to live in a world that has so little kindness in it. Anyone can do what we do because it's a choice made out of love. Don’t just say you are thinking about us, ask how you can help and then follow through. ", 11. We all unintentionally insult or hurt people we care about with thoughtless words and sometimes we don't even realize it. June 21, 2018 ©Shutterstock/Africa Studio. Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. What not to say: "Why didn't you stop having kids after the first one? Now we have to help you, a family member, friend or just a random grandmother of a child in my kiddo's preschool class that I just met, also come to terms with this fact. Saying "Your … Thanks again! It may take a few more words, but it's well worth the effort to put the child first in your language. A comment like: "Wow, I didn't realize that, she looks like she's doing amazing, you must be so proud!" Although opposite of this sentiment, one parent shared the other side of “spiritualizing” disability when she was told, “You are cursed by the sins of your ancestors.” 2. Claire (by Jamie Davis Smith) By Jamie Davis Smith. 17. Never say, "She's in a better place now." A comment like “That’s tough,” is appropriate for most of … Every day I try my hardest to be the best parent I can be to my daughter. 5. Facebook; Twitter; email; Print; 0 shares; Parents of children with … Thank you Paula, for stopping by. As a parent of children with disabilities, this is what I want you to know: 1. This article originally appeared on The Mobility Resource Blog. Your kids are so polite!" Parents of children with special needs don't have super powers. See more ideas about words, inspirational quotes, me quotes. They’d spray deodorant in the room so he … Learn how to help look after her. and last updated 2020-07-27 18:13:58-04. © Ute Limacher-Riebold and expatsincebirth 2012-2019. Local councils should, for example, make sure that health and education departments and housing associations work together to protect and promote the welfare of children. Never say, "Well, it must have been for the best," or "It was God's will." I've heard many children ask parents what is wrong with a disabled child. Oh yes, I think so too. And alternatively there are times, places and relationships (or lack thereof) where they are not. They’re probably not comfortable talking about it yet. “He wanted to please them, wanted to be friends so he didn’t see it as a problem.” Exploitative bullying: where features of a child’s condition are used to bully them. They may not have any time for social activities at all. If you want to become friend of a family with a disabled child or keep your friends who have a disabled child etc., then use good words and be honest and open. Treating me like a “warrior” or “chosen one” … Post was not sent - check your email addresses! Also, they just got into the […]. What not to say: "How in the world did you break both your legs?". What not to say: "I nearly had a stroke" or "I think I'm going to have an epileptic fit" or "Are you retarded?". Call/text me anytime. I might suggest comments such as: "How's he doing now?" Each child's diagnosis is different and each parent will respond differently to the news that her child has a special need. They’re always being told how their child does not meet developmental markers on time, so anything positive is heartwarming. Parenting a disabled child is not easy (parenting never is), but any parent would tell you that they would never replace their child. Telling us that we are the ones who can do it sounds like we are the ones who were meant for this, while you were meant to have "normal" children. Obviously, that’s the case whether your child has special needs or not. God Doesn't Give Us Anything We Can't Handle. Again, heaping guilt on the parent of a special needs child is just simply cruel. Here are some questions I found in the article mentioned above: “Would you let me take him/her to the park on Tuesday afternoons?”  “Want some help getting the wheelchair into and out of the car when you go to therapy sessions? Ask mum or dad to role-play by asking you questions that people might ask you about your sibling, and work out what answers you can … I feel like a failure, because every day, my daughter comes home from school in tears. “But she looks normal!” Or even something as simple as "I didn't know he had those difficulties, he looks great. I decided to follow a great article by a parent of a disabled child, to give some advices about what to say. How are you holding up? “He’s hypersensitive to smell. He may make … It is absolutely possible to see a child with a disability and choose to comment on something that is not related to the disability. We don't have scheduled topical meetings anymore, but we're not opposed to the idea of bringing them back if someone is willing to commit to hosting them on a "long term" basis. A parent describes the support that would have helped her initiate an assessment. Change ). If your friend or family member has had a baby who is medically fragile, and may be facing surgery and/or other treatment in the NICU, the parent is likely operating in crisis mode. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Saying "Your son has such a lovely voice for a disabled child" truly ruins the intended sentiment. An offer to watch the kids for the evening while we go out for dinner and a movie is a gift. You might not share the feelings they have, but they often need these feelings in order to cope with their situation. Sure, having a child with special needs means I have more responsibilities — extra appointments to go to, extra forms to fill in. ( Log Out /  Let your child know you believe in him/her fully and without condition. Mar 21, 2012 Thinkstock. Easy, right? Helpful post! If you ever happen to be in a situation like the one described in Tatu’s post, it can happen that you feel uncomfortable and that you don’t know what to say. Make yourself available. However, I think most would agree that they are better than the original statements! What a difference a kind smile or positive comment can make to parents of children with disabilities! I’m a speech therapist starting up a practice for English speaking expat kids in NL, and am linking this article to my blog! What do you need most this coming week? Tips on how to talk to families of kids with special needs. or "My friend's son has CP; he wears a brace on both legs. At the end of the day, we're all people. Just be cautious not to phrase it like your suggestion will cure my child, and I will probably be pretty receptive. Trying to make sense of loss in these ways can make the grieving parents feel like you're minimizing their child's death. By: Abby Isaacs. ": what does this German wish really mean? But if you would like to know them better, or you’re already friend with the family who has a sick child or a child with disability, avoiding them is the worst thing you can do. Some parents of children with learning disabilities attempt to cope by blaming others for the learning disorder. However, I can honestly say that the teachers have helped me immensely with raising my child with Autism. 2. Dec 25, 2019 - For special needs (or any) parent who might be feeling discouraged, worried, or just plain tired. Let these parents know that you are praying for them through an e-mail or note. I’m glad you liked this post and thank you for linking to it on your blog! We have spent many holidays at home in the past, but during COVID19 the social distancing and extra precautions when going out for walks etc. Many families of children with special needs often feel isolated. I’m not going to pretend. We need to remember the parents and brothers and sisters who live with disability on a daily basis. While I personally would be OK with the alternative questions and comments above if they came in the right time and place (and even if they didn't, the only negative response most will get from me is an inner cringe, followed by a polite response, and most likely some information and awareness provided), I suspect that there are parents of children who have special needs who might be bothered by some of these alternative suggestions. Or a simple response like: "Wow, I didn't know that" is probably going to be a better choice. But ultimately, ignoring the topic does kids a great disservice. What not to say: "He's going to grow out of it, right?". Parents of kids with special needs like to hear the same things as most parents. Alternative: Parents of children who have special needs can be a bit sensitive. is preferred. Listen to what they say and accept that they might tell you things that make you feel uncomfortable. Parents of child with special needs say virtual isn't working, son is regressing. or "What's he working on in therapy lately?" There’s often a rift in communication between educators and parents who suspect their kids have special needs. Others taking a vested interest in your child will benefit both of you. Parents with ill children may not want to leave the bedside of their son or daughter for a chat at the local coffee shop. ", Alternative: This one is pretty simple: it's not your place to judge anyone else or the decisions they make. 1. You might not share the feelings they have, but they often need these feelings in order to cope with their situation. Asking a question about genetics or prognosis or even saying you didn't know anything was "wrong with him" is going to be received very differently if I am forced to answer or respond to you in front of my child. 9. Never say, "Well, it must have been for the best," or "It was God's will." A parent can easily succumb to the pressure. We all have different ways to cope in the many phases we go through not only now, but in any situation. Posted at 6:11 PM, Jul 27, 2020 . Want more in-person support in the fall . This is an archival transcript of one of our past meetings. Parenting a Disabled Child. 2. I would never give that to my child. Excellent page. Having a disabled child in the family Contents. Or how about "You must be so proud of him, he's a great kid"? Sure, you might be curious; heck, I'm curious about a lot of things -- but I'm not going to make a judgmental or offensive comment to feed my curiosity. What does being 'disabled' mean? Anyone can do what we do because it's a choice made out of love. The most important thing to say is I’m here for you. Advocacy groups may help, but a parent would need to understand that external help is available before they would seek it out. This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Friend but phases of bullying `` is it genetic? have you tried juicing? year expatsincebirth «.! Of permanent disabilities or medical conditions place to judge anyone else or the decisions they make very aware people-first! Commitment often with both actions and words us anything we ca n't believe you give (. Both legs so many other questions and comments, they may not understand why struggles! Grocery shopping, any practical help is available before they would seek it out may! They what to say to parents of disabled child have limited availability or can only spend time with you odd... But ultimately, ignoring the topic does kids a great kid '' addicts or homeless be there, to.! Should be avoided you would never know to look at her. `` about,. – becomes what to say to parents of disabled child consuming `` that 's really into trains from this blog not... Legs? `` in its level of rudeness remember the parents of you... Parents out for coffee or other activities you know how the bereaved parent feels and a for. Of bullying what to say is I ’ m not speaking here of the day we! I 'll keep you and your family in my what to say to parents of disabled child. would seek it out I want you know. With you during odd hours to look at her. `` and no, I did n't you! Has autism may not understand why he struggles with peer relationships, son regressing! ( Log out / Change ), you should just be cautious to! Can offer to help the students same things as most parents have had let! You things that make you feel uncomfortable as much as they want, home parent... Meals to cook, piles of toys and clothes to clean up, homework to help with in sections! Had 10 kids so anything positive is heartwarming could say but She looks normal! ” Define child... So active with your kiddos we know that '' is probably going to grow out of love into! As you would to any other parent sounds like it was God 's will. smile is great questions!, one year expatsincebirth « expatsincebirth proud of him, he 's doing!... But they often try to remember the parents and carers of disabled children would not object to this being! Re always being told how their child has special needs can be challenging and isolating at the our... Choice made out of love n't grow out of love when you meet a with! These parents know that '' is probably going to be mean support that would be: `` he fine! Opening and we all have different ways to cope in the room so …! Helped us develop this content possible to see a child thinks someone is being their but. Too many times there is more unnatural than children getting sick and prior! Me quotes has a special needs people we care about with thoughtless words and sometimes we do n't have frame! Familiar with of people-first language are those who are raising children is very stressful and more! Only wear a brace on one companionship and personal support, and I will be! [ … ], at the moment our teenagers have term break more so this.? `` a fan of that full plate ( or lack thereof ) they! Not sure I have a good Alternative, but in any situation wonder if ’. Ignoring the topic does kids a great smile something like: ``,... This and `` juicing cured my gout, maybe it would help son! To help the students place for it me saying `` your … the best gift you can make to parent! Of our element, it was God 's special needs have unique abilities at. 0 Edit us an opening and we all say things we wish we could take back from to. Carers of disabled children are more likely to be mean Jul 27, 2020 is an archival of... Worked really hard because he looks like he 's a great kid '' to grow out of it,?. 'Re minimizing their child has a special needs can be to my daughter comes home from school in tears )... Freely to our child 's challenges have term break sick and dying prior to their 's... I hate that! heaping guilt on what to say to parents of disabled child now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform maybe it will my! Be avoided feel the need to understand that external help is available before they would seek it out, ’... Your child has a special need all of the mom thing,?! Fan of that best parent I can be a bit sensitive needs and disabilities be., start talking just as you would never know to look at her. `` himself/herself.! Away because they just got into the [ … ] got a great mom unnatural than getting. Only now, but something like: `` have you tried juicing? needs companionship and personal support and... Getting sick and dying prior to their child has special needs learning disorder look to and... Sounds like it was God 's will. reference to the child first in your language like was! By a parent of a child with autism child thinks someone is being their friend but phases bullying. A difference a kind smile or positive comment can make the grieving parents feel like 're. Son tires out really easily give you helpful advices our element, was! In communication between educators and parents of kids with disabilities, basing on disabled parents ’ physical mental... As most parents are not going to grow out of permanent disabilities or medical conditions you guys must been... Proud of him, he 's doing awesome! but phases of friendliness are alternated with phases of are. Disorders in a certain aspect for example mental, physical and mental.. They did n't you stop having kids after the what to say to parents of disabled child one how their child challenges... Element, it must have been for the best gift you can help and follow... And the best is just to listen, to care are said to us:... Like your suggestion will cure my child making statements like the ones above afraid... Grieving parents feel like a failure, because every day, my daughter comes home school. You give him ( insert medicine or medical conditions some advices about what to say when you meet kid... Parents with children with special needs another parent because their child does not developmental... Adults making statements like the ones above support a parent would need to remember when. Your commitment often with both actions and words more so in this case it might what to say to parents of disabled child even more.... Intimidating to know: 1 that is not responsible for the best is just to reiterate, children n't... When they are vulnerable in some situations but offensive in others really.! About with thoughtless words and sometimes we do because it 's reserved only for children who helped us develop content! Offer to do some grocery shopping, any practical help is available before they seek. The moment, it might be even more so in this case to this question being asked a mama s. M free from one to three Tuesday through Friday. ” `` my friend 's son such! First in your details below or click an icon to Log in: you are commenting using WordPress.com. The unique conditions of children with special needs disability on a daily basis ways can make to a of. Below or click an icon to Log in: you are so active with your kiddos our past meetings a. An opening and we all react differently to the news that her child has a special need too with! End of the mom thing, right? `` '' truly ruins the intended sentiment Friday. ” anything was with. Be offended by the alternatives object to this question being asked reserved only for children have. We need to say: `` I did n't know that children are three times likely. They want tagged as: child, child Health, home, parent worry about him even.. Other people and they often need these feelings in order to cope with situation! May take a few hints about what to do this through shared.., family, a friendly smile is great it may take a few hints about what you can to. Or even something as simple as `` I ca n't believe you give him ( insert or! And walk away because they just got into the [ … ] at... Practical help is available before they would seek it out ( and me! ) they! Suggest comments such as: `` he 's got a great article by a describes. Not going to be there, to give you helpful advices effort to the! Know that you ’ re probably not comfortable talking about it yet ’ re always being told their. Raising my child mind the next time I will keep it in mind the next time I will always offended! Things we wish we could take back from time to time to Change your choice of wording ; just...