A blog for special needs parents

I started this blog in 2007 with the idea that I could share my experiences raising a child with special needs. My hope then as it is now – that I can grow The Special Parent to be a real resource for parents and loved ones with special needs children of all ages. I want to give you, information and experiences I’ve gathered over 26 years of rearing a physically, developmentally, and mentally disabled child. This by harnessing the internet I, and others, can share resources and provide a shoulder to lean on for one another. I believe that this information could be a roadmap of sorts to help guide you through your journey.

I’m not sure where you are on your journey with your special needs child. It could be:

You’re pregnant, and you’ve found out that you’re going to have a special needs child.
You’re still reeling from the shock that life with your new baby isn’t going to be as you had dreamed and planned.
You’re grappling with new information about your special needs child.
Your child developed special needs after an accident or illness, and you are dealing with a whole new world.
You’ve been doing this for a long time but you’re encountering new struggles.
You’ve made it to high school, and suddenly you realize that graduation is around the corner. “Now what?” is the question weighing on your heart.
You’re getting older and afraid of what will happen when you’re no longer here.

Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light

~Helen Keller

My mission is to grow The Special Parent to be a real resource for parents with special needs children of all ages. I know this blog won’t be all things to all people. It can’t possibly be. I hope that it will speak to you and your situation. Perhaps the review of a book or a retelling of one of many IEP meetings I’ve attended will give you a place to go – or a place to avoid! Most of all, I hope that we can take that journey together, and somehow it will make navigating the system of the special needs/disability world you’re about to travel, just a little bit easier.