Every special needs child needs you. Yet, I am always confounded by those who do not reach out to the parent of a child with disabilities. The reason could be considered unimportant, but it is essential to understand why someone would not help.

Why do you think others are not lending a hand when a parent would greatly appreciate their assistance? Are they shy to ask, nervous about interacting with your child, or do they have no idea what help they could be to you?

Regarding child care for special needs children, respite is the word most commonly used. The definition of respite means “a short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.” If you feel the word has a negative connotation, you are correct. However, I find it interesting that respite is used regularly to describe giving time off to a parent of a special needs child.

When raising my son, I thought of the word respite as a much-needed break from the challenges of my day-to-day life. Every mother needs a little time to herself to recharge and refresh. It makes parenting more manageable.

I wish every family member, friend, and neighbor could read this blog. You could assist a parent in a small way. Give the gift of a few hours off for one morning. Take the child for an ice cream to allow the parent to regroup at home. If the weather is nice, a park is a favorite place for children, especially the swing. And, of course, you can ask the parent what would suit the child best as an activity.