Advocate Of Hope

It’s challenging being the parent of an SEND child, it’s like embarking on an expedition! So, in a moment I want to offer you three pieces of wisdom.

If we are fortunate, schools offer a sanctuary of support during weekdays, with programs tailored to our children’s needs, guiding them through their educational journey. Yet, when the school bell rings at the end of the school day, we step into a role that extends beyond normal parenting duties.

Our days are filled with the relentless pursuit of knowledge, seeking to comprehend their disability, trying to unlock all the support and resources available. This quest often leads us down paths of extensive research, advocacy, and, sometimes, intense emotional and physical challenges.

The silent battles we fight in securing care, managing treatments, and accessing vital resources, often go unnoticed by those around us, and the financial strain of specialised support can take its toll.

Yet all that pales in comparison to the emotional investment we pour into our children’s lives! We face the battles which rage in our minds between worry about their future, guilt towards the time spent away from their siblings, and the exhaustion from the ceaseless care we strive to give them.

However, amidst these trials, there lies a courageous spirit within us —a resilience that has been built through our experiences. And so, I wish to impart three essential pillars of wisdom.

1. Seek Support Fearlessly:There is no shame in reaching out for help, be it from professionals or your own circle of family and friends. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It is the lifeline that sustains us, allowing us to breathe, to regroup, and to forge ahead with renewed vigour.

2. Foster Understanding: Share the story of your child’s unique world with others. By explaining the reasons behind certain behaviours, we invite empathy, patience, and support from those around us, creating a more inclusive and understanding environment for our children to thrive in.

3. And I can’t stress this enough- Prioritize Self-Care: In the whirlwind of caregiving, do not lose sight of your own well-being. Carve out moments for yourself, be it in the briefly quiet hours of the morning or the quiet of the evening. Embrace activities that rejuvenate your spirit and remind you of the person you are beyond your role as a caregiver. 

I want to remind you that while the path of SEND parenting is strewn with challenges, it is also lined with moments of immeasurable joy and achievement. Our children teach us about the strength of the human spirit, the depth of parental love, and the beauty of diversity.

Together, as a community of parents, guardians, and advocates, let us support each other, celebrate our victories, and navigate the challenges with courage and resilience.

Take care.

Your well-being is the foundation upon which your family stands.