Being a parent of a child with special needs is something many will never understand unless they have lived it. These parents are working every day to provide for their families financially and emotionally. They are parents trying to juggle multiple therapy appointments, school meetings, doctors’ appointments while trying to provide a sense of stability and normalcy for their children.

It saddens me knowing people are not considerate to parents of children with special needs. They stare at parents when children are “misbehaving” while shaking their heads in disbelief. They’re not aware the child that is melting down in the corner is not a “spoiled” child, but one who has special needs. Believing that the tears and tantrums are a “behavior problem”, not a sensory deficit. Feeling a sense of superiority in their parenting skills, while watching parents struggle to try and calm their distressed child.

Parents, I want to tell you that you are enough! Everything you do every day for your child is enough! You are loving them fiercely and wholeheartedly. Even when you don’t have all the answers, your desire to help your child succeed is enough. Don’t let your fears and doubts overtake you. Don’t let judgment from others bring you down. You are powerful, capable, and unstoppable!

It is a prayer and a hope that we would strive to provide a better world for our children. That we would model kindness, tolerance, humility, and humanity for one another.

Parents, you are my superhero!