When raising children we need help, but when raising children with autism and special needs we need more than help. I found while raising my son, Brandon I needed to reach out for assistance and support from people who cared. I found support through family, friends and neighbors who were happy to help out. What a difference an hour made when I was out spending it by myself. I could get so much accomplished, and when I returned home I felt renewed.There are people who want to help you. Make yourself available and tell people what you need. Make sure the people you get to stay with your child care. That will make a huge difference. We don’t have to do this alone!
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Comments (4)
When my daughter lived at home, respite care kept me sane. We would get an overnight break quite regularly and some day care too, which was invaluable to me as a single mum with another child to manage. Once a year I booked in a weekend too, which meant I could go to a rock festival and have myself a mini holiday, doing something that I couldn't have done with my daughter, she could never have coped with it, nor I with her. She is in residential school now so respite isn't necessary and I have lots of time to recharge my batteries for when she comes home at the weekend
@Mandy - Hi Mandy,
From one mother to another you understand firsthand. Glad to hear you have time to recharge. That's a very important part of life. It's what keeps us going.
Take care,
Amalia Starr
@amaliastarr - I would certainly prescribe respite care to every parent of a child with special needs, to know that you have that support without worrying that friends and family will tire of helping is priceless. For me, I had no other support after my divorce, so it was such a relief to know that I didn't have to negotiate with her father just so I could have a break (a huge problem between me and him!)
@Mandy - I couldn't agree more about getting respite care. I was extremely fortunate to have a mother who wanted to help. She was amazing with Brandon. They became best friends. The bottom line is to get help, support, assistance from people who understand your child and from people who care. I appreciate your comments.
All the best,
Amalia