Parenting a child with a special need can be demanding on time, effort, and energy with impact on work, marriages, and family relationships. Parents of children with special needs require special skills, primarily: caregiving and advocacy and self-care for themselves.

Caregiving of children with special needs is about being able to accept that you may not be able to fix the condition, but you can reframe aspects of their condition in a positive light. Caregiving also requires a co-parenting framework so that each parent can provide consistent care to their child and support each other.

Advocacy is about taking on the role of champion on behalf of your child.

Top tips for parenting a child with special needs

Some steps include:

1. Know your rights

You can do this by talking to Citizen’s Advice, Department of Education, your local Council, your child school, and/or third sector organisations that specialise in the diagnosis your child has.
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2. Create connections

Build your child’s network of support by making connections with all supporters. This means setting up meetings, volunteering in situations where you can make contact of those who are involved in your child’s care, meeting other parents and carers, and joining your local carer network.
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3. Keep a record of things you are worried about

Go to meetings prepared with these facts. Make sure you document discussions that have an impact on your child’s wellbeing or education.
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4. Remember you are an expert in your child

Make sure you communicate what is needed and can collaborate in making change.
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5. Engage your child as much as you can in their own care

Help them to learn to be self-advocates by permitting as much space for them as possible to make their own choices and learn to deal with their mistakes.
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Further support

For more support, you may like to explore:

• The Advocacy People
• Your local social care service provider
• VoiceAbility