The Ten Commandments for Parents of Children with Disabilities
1. Take one day at a time, and take that day positively. You don't have
control over the future, but you do have control over today.
2. Never underestimate your child's potential. Allow him, encourage
him, expect him to develop to the best of his abilities.
3. Find and allow positive mentors: parents and professionals who can
share with you their experience, advice, and support.
4. Provide and be involved with the most appropriate educational and
learning environments for your child from infancy on.
5. Keep in mind the feelings and needs of your spouse and your other
children. Remind them that this child does not get more of your love just
because he gets more of your time.
6. Answer only to your conscience: then you'll be able to answer to
your child. You need not justify your actions to your friends or the
public.
7. Be honest with your feelings. You can't be a super-parent 24 hours a
day. Allow yourself jealousy, anger, pity, frustration, and depression
in small amounts whenever necessary.
8. Be kind to yourself. Don't focus continually on what needs to be
done. Remember to look at what you have accomplished.
9. Stop and smell the roses. Take advantage of the fact that you have
gained a special appreciation for the little miracles in life that
others take for granted.
10. Keep and use a sense of humor. Cracking up with laughter can keep
you from cracking up from stress.