17 Ways Special Needs Parents Can Prioritize Self-care
Remember that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a strength in recognizing your limitations and the importance of your well-being. Different strategies will work for different individuals, so be open to exploring and finding the options that suit your unique circumstances.
Let's go over 17 ways you can ask for help when you have a child with extra needs so you can improve your personal well-being.
1. Reach out to Family and Friends: Contact close family members and friends to share your needs and ask for support. They may be willing to lend a hand with childcare, household chores, or even provide emotional support.
2. Join Support Groups: Connect with support groups or online communities specifically for parents of children with special needs. These groups provide a platform to share experiences, seek advice, and ask for help from those who understand your situation.
3. Seek Respite Care: Look into respite care services that provide temporary relief by offering qualified caregivers who can care for your child while you take a break. Respite care can range from a few hours to overnight stays.
Jumpstart your child's optimal development learn how to assess and offer them the developmental experiences they missed out.
When doing our programs, look foe new skills in areas of:
- Life-long Learning
- Physical and Motor Development
- Visual Learning
- Emotional Well-being
- Social Competence
- Language Articulation
- Resilience and Adaptability
- Academic Success
- Independence
- Play
- etc.
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- "Worried Parent Starter Kit 50% off: 0-24 months" - CLICK HERE
- "Worried Parent Starter Kit 50% off: 25 months +" - CLICK HERE
4. Communicate with Your Partner: Openly discuss your needs and challenges with your partner. Collaborate to find ways to share responsibilities and support each other in caring for your child.
5. Connect with Local Resources: Research local organizations or nonprofits that offer services and support for families with special needs children. They may have programs that provide assistance, respite care, therapy services, or financial aid.
6. Consult with Professionals: Talk to your child's healthcare providers, therapists, or educators about your needs and concerns. They can offer guidance and help you access additional resources and support available in your community.
Movement Lesson is Traveling to Scotland in October! - CLICK HERE to sign up for an intensive.
Movement Lesson is Traveling to Australia! - CLICK HERE to sign up for an intensive
YouTube Video - Atypical to OPTIMAL Development:
- NEW "Atypical Development Baby Bald Spots 3 Months Old - The Meaning Behind the Wear Patterns" CLICK HERE
- NEW "Hypotonia or Cerebral Palsy - How do I tell at 10 Months Old?" - CLICK HERE
- "How Your Baby Sees - Birth to One Month - Visual Development" - CLICK HERE
- "How Vision Affects Movement and Baby Milestones" - CLICK HERE
- "TAPPED out of Therapy and Medical Services" - CLICK HERE
- "Movement Lesson is Harder than Therapy" - CLICK HERE
If you find any of these videos or tips that would help someone you know, please share this link with them in a personalized text message or on your social media.
FEATURED FREE COURSE:
- "Heavy Head" - CLICK HERE
FEATURED PAID COURSE:
- "Worried Parent Starter Kit 50% off: 0-24 months" - CLICK HERE
- "Worried Parent Starter Kit 50% off: 25 months +" - CLICK HERE
Facebook Videos (not available on other mediums):
(Note: Don't be overwhelmed by the amount of videos. Watch what is relevant to you, and if you want learn more, then watch the other videos. If you have questions, ask! Also, play more attention to the movement process I am explaining for each particular circumstance vs the amount of videos that there are. You will notice that my message and solution is actually quite focused.)
- "Parents - Feeling the conflict when you are told that everything is fine" - CLICK HERE
- "Fear of Being a Special Parent" - CLICK HERE
- "Special Needs Parent - Time Management" - CLICK HERE
- "The Partnership of a Special Needs Parent is For Life" - CLICK HERE
- "Milestones can happen at 20 - mom brag" - CLICK HERE
- "Your Child is Fine - Did you notice your child was not evaluated for movement ?" - CLICK HERE
(To get a free video review of your child, post a short video on the group. If you want something more private, then you can email [email protected] to request a zoom session with a practitioner.)
7. Utilize Government Assistance Programs: Explore government assistance programs that provide financial aid or other support for families with special needs children. Check with your local social services agency to see what options are available.
8. Educate Others: Advocate for your child and educate your immediate community about their specific needs. By raising awareness, you may find that people around you are more willing to offer assistance or accommodate your child's needs.
9. Utilize Online Platforms: Leverage online platforms, such as crowdfunding websites or social media, to share your story and ask for support. Many people are eager to help when they learn about your situation.
Facebook Movement Lesson Home Application (not available on other mediums):
- "What is the Rotational Touch" - CLICK HERE
- "What is Weight Transfer" - CLICK HERE
- "Core Muscle vs. Core Strength" - CLICK HERE
- "Working on my Husband" - CLICK HERE
- "My son is typical but he didn't start out that way." - CLICK HERE
(Want a more specific plan on how to implement ML in to your Home Program? Get the Worried Parent Kit and get 90 days free access to the Child Support Program. Get FREE 15 minute one-on-ones with, Erin Fulks (as many as needed), to help you stay successful in the home when doing Movement Lesson. CLICK HERE to get the starter kit!)
(If you click on any of the three links above and they don't work, that means you are not in the Facebook group. Join the Facebook group Movement Lesson for Parents and Practitioners, then click on the links and they will take you to the right videos. CLICK HERE to join the group)
Movement Lesson takes the "worry and wait and see" out of parenting AND puts the power of your child's development back into your hands BY giving you the evaluation tools you need to unlock your child's optimal development and progression!
OTHER FREE PARENT WORKSHOPS & WEBINARS:
- 5 Secret Transitional Skills Required for Child Development - CLICK HERE
- Typical Development + Early Warning Signs For Three to Six Months Old Baby - CLICK HERE
- Typical Development + Early Warning Signs For Birth to Three Months Old Baby - CLICK HERE
- Vestibular Creation and Equipment - CLICK HERE
10. Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is crucial. Don't hesitate to ask for help when it comes to self-care activities. Reach out to your support network or hire a caregiver to ensure you have time for relaxation, exercise, therapy, or pursuing personal interests.
11. Establish Boundaries: Set clear boundaries around your time and energy. Learn to say no to additional commitments that may overwhelm you and prioritize activities that replenish your energy.
12. Create Daily Rituals: Incorporate small self-care rituals into your daily routine. It can be as simple as taking a few minutes each morning for meditation, reading a book before bed, or enjoying a cup of tea in the afternoon.
UPCOMING PARENT WORKSHOP: THE AUTISM PLAN - CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP
13. Delegate and Accept Help: Don't be afraid to delegate tasks or accept help when it's offered. Reach out to your support network and ask for assistance with childcare, errands, or household chores. Remember, you don't have to do it all alone.
14. Pursue Hobbies and Interests: Carve out time to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Whether it's painting, playing a musical instrument, gardening, or any other hobby, make space in your life for activities that nourish your soul.
15. Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks for yourself, even if they are short. Use these moments to relax, practice self-care, or do something you enjoy. It could be as simple as taking a bath, going for a coffee date with a friend, or reading a book in a quiet corner.
Movement Lesson is Traveling to Scotland in October! - CLICK HERE to sign up for an intensive.
Movement Lesson is Traveling to Australia! - CLICK HERE to sign up for an intensive
16. Prioritize Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for overall well-being. Establish a consistent sleep routine and ensure you are getting enough rest each night. If necessary, seek assistance or adjustments to your child's care routine to prioritize your own sleep needs.
17. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Acknowledge that caregiving can be challenging, and it's okay to prioritize your needs. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding you would offer to others.
Remember, self-care is not selfish but essential for your well-being. Even small acts of self-care can make a significant difference in your ability to manage the demands of caregiving and find balance in your life.
Again, we invite you to choose one of these suggestions and implement it in your daily life STARTING TODAY!
Enjoy the movement education,
Michelle Turner and Erin Fulks
Ps. If you really want to jumpstart your child's optimal development learn how to assess and offer them the developmental experiences they missed out on with our Worried Parent Start Kit.
- "Worried Parent Starter Kit 50% off: 0-24 months" - CLICK HERE
- "Worried Parent Starter Kit 50% off: 25 months +" - CLICK HERE