Welcome to a new year with new possibilities and daily choices. What do I want my life to look like with a special needs child? I’ve watched a few moms taking more chances and I love that. It’s easier said than done.
Here are a few things I do with your child before we do something new or go try something out of their comfort level.
- Prepare myself first. What could go wrong? How can I plan if that happens? Do I have all the necessary supports if it doesn’t go as planned?
- Let your child know what they will be doing or going to try before it happens. Surprises don’t always go as planned. Prep them using a story or visuals.
- Set a timer to set the stage of steps prior to the event.
- Pack anything that your child may need/want and remember soothing items and replacement items in case what you have planned, fails.
- Plan for emergencies in case the planned activity gets canceled by an outside party. Plan something instead so your child feels they are still getting the activity even if it looks different.
- Take a deep breath and go for it. What’s the worse that can happen? I know I plan for the worse too, but it’s okay. We all need to be easier on ourselves.
- Have fun!
- You did it. Celebrate your accomplishments.Next time will be easier.