Hot Momma’s Advice: Different, not less. Accept your child for who he/she is and challenge him/her to become everything he/she can be!
The children of Guyana always give me a reason to smile and, like children all over the world, are one of the greatest gifts in life. Parents know that this gift also requires a huge amount of work, and if your great gift comes in a special package with special needs, then the path can be even more difficult yet just as rewarding.
Parents with special needs children face a different set of challenges, especially where proper diagnosis, medical services, and special educational services are not available. There is often a lot of guilt associated with parenting a special needs child. Sometimes parents feel so ashamed or uncertain that special needs children are kept at home and not allowed to attend school. Because of the Persons with Disability Act that was passed last year, this is no longer an option. All children must attend school. For any parent out there who has a special needs child, one thing to always keep in mind is that you are not alone and there are people here to help!
My Hot Momma always said that when you are told that your child has any disability, or handicap, it is easy to fall into the trap of feeling guilty and ashamed. However, it is important to acknowledge each child as the unique gift he/she is, and being different does not mean being less!!
There is a consistent stigma all around the world attached to children with special needs, and unless you have a child with special needs it’s something that you probably haven’t really thought about. For the next few months the articles found here will be giving examples of how to work with children of various abilities and disabilities throughout their education.
Here are a few things to keep in mind…
Each child is a
unique individual
Every child holds within him/herself unlimited power. A child’s strengths and weaknesses will not be the same as the next child. As a parent, caregiver, teacher, doctor, or friend, you can help bring out in these children their power by giving them the opportunity to use it in the ways that will help them succeed!
Don’t Give up!
You and your child may become frustrated or upset at times trying to find and succeed at the opportunities presented to you, but it is important not to give up on your child or yourself. A success is a success, no matter how large or small the progress. Take time to celebrate the little things in life with your child!
Set expectations!
It’s easy as a parent to lower expectations for certain things depending on your child’s abilities. It is extremely important to challenge your child when necessary and expect good behaviour, success, and positive results!
The biggest thing you can do is accept your child for who he/she is and give him/her every opportunity to achieve everything the world offers, including your love and support!!
Please send specific or general questions about your child’s education or way to teach them to: classroomguyana@gmail.com
