When I started The Parenting Cipher, my goal was clear: to provide support for parents of special needs children in their journey toward their child’s academic success. Over the years, that goal expanded, yet the mission remained the same—helping parents gain control over their child’s learning journey while navigating learning disabilities.
I soon realized that parents of special needs children needed more than just guidance; they needed a community. So, I built one.
A community is more than just a group of people. Here are some of the best definitions I found:
Of these, the last definition fits parents of special needs children best. We share common experiences, challenges, and goals that set us apart from the broader parenting world. We are advocates, protectors, and guides for our children. By definition, we are a minority community.
Parenting is challenging, but parenting a special needs child comes with unique hurdles. This is why support for parents of special needs children is not just helpful—it’s essential. Here are three key ways community support can positively impact parents:
When parenting a child with special needs, you experience emotions that others may not fully understand. Support for parents of special needs children provides a safe space to express fears, frustrations, and victories without judgment. Talking to others who truly understand helps lighten the emotional burden.
Schools may provide resources, but the best advice often comes from fellow parents who have been through the same process. Whether it’s navigating IEPs, dealing with therapy appointments, or understanding new diagnoses, support for parents of special needs children comes from those who have walked the path before you.
Children with special needs often have specialized social needs, but what about parents? Playdates aren’t just for kids—parents need friendships, too. Being part of a special needs support community means forming meaningful connections with others who understand your unique challenges. These friendships often extend to your children, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.
If you’re looking for a supportive community for parents of special needs children, consider joining The Parenting Cipher.
Our Community Resources:
Parenting a child with special needs is not a journey you have to take alone. Support for parents of special needs children is available through conversations, shared experiences, and lasting friendships. Embrace the community, seek guidance, and know that help is always within reach.
Join us today and take the first step toward building a stronger support system for both you and your child!
While I urge you to join community groups of your choosing, I have to tell you about my own. The Parenting Cipher is definitely a community group I love sharing with you. I also have a Facebook community group, in case you were unaware:
Facebook group – Together, we will address specific topics around special education, managing your child’s diagnoses at home, self-care, emotional support, and entrepreneurship while simultaneously acknowledging cultural biases and stereotypes ever-present in our school systems.
“Back to School Workshop” - August 15, 2021, join me in my Facebook group for this free webinar. Promptly starting at 12 p.m - 2 p.m. EST. I will give you tools, tips and tricks to help prepare for your child returning to school. I will also answer questions live that appear in the comments section.
Remember, you don’t have to do any of this alone. My community groups and others are there to converse with you and support you through you and your child’s journey. The friendships created are added bonuses. Embrace it all.
