Children with special needs aren’t the only ones who deal with a society whose expectations do not align with reality. Parents and caregivers of special needs kids do as well. Despite the fact that parenting skills are often taught in a supposed “one-size-fits-all” paradigm, parents of children with special needs need to find a way to guide their children in a society that may not see, understand, and value them. In this article, we propose five tips on how to help kids with special needs thrive, not just survive.

1. Change Your Mind

To help children with special needs thrive, parents have to change their minds about what it means to be a great parent. Understanding and building a relationship with your child should be prioritized over making sure you raise them the same way you were taught or how you raise neurotypical children. Education and seeking a deeper understanding of your child are key aspects of changing your mindset.

Child-led parenting is an effective tool across the board for neurotypical children, neurodiverse children, and kids with a trauma background. For neurodivergent children, letting them lead by showing you in their own way promotes gentleness and understanding in powerful ways.

2. Curate Their Options

The idea of curating your child’s options mirrors the fact that their options must fit their needs because their needs don’t fit the typical list of options available to all. Parents of children with special needs must find a way to marry out-of-the-box solutions with the usual list of ways to meet any child’s needs and form a personalized approach to their life. Providing access to as many options as possible to meet their needs will give them tools that will help them thrive, even in the face of challenges.

3. Celebrate Milestones and Holidays Differently

Being left out of celebrations or not feeling celebrated by family and friends can take a huge toll on the mental health of children with special needs. It is important to celebrate milestones and holidays differently for these children. Modifications can help make sure that every child is included and celebrated.

4. Connect the Dots

Children with special needs often have special abilities, too. Helping our children with special needs and abilities to have a well-rounded existence requires taking in the challenges and the gifts and showing them how they work together. We can empower our children when we help them to see how they fit into the world.

5. Challenge the System

Advocating for our children is extremely important. It can be intimidating and frustrating as well. The world we live in does not always value, understand, or cater to our kids with special needs. When we advocate for them, we challenge the system. Advocating for our kids changes the options available to them. It also highlights our love and care for them.

In conclusion, helping children with special needs thrive is about changing our mindset, curating their options, celebrating milestones and holidays differently, connecting the dots, and challenging the system. By implementing these strategies, parents can help their children cherish the diversity and beauty they bring to the world.