It has often been said that parents wish they had an instruction manual when they leave the hospital with their newborn. Although there are many parenting books out there, there is not one sure method that works for all children. Parenting is the most important job, yet the only job where one is not formally trained.
As a parent of a child with special needs, you know parenting is extremely tough. You are the child’s advocate and the choices you make will impact your child today and in their future.
Recently, I met a neighbor whose 3- year- old son was just diagnosed with autism. Needless to say, we bonded very quickly and I felt I could be the parents’ mentor having 10 more years’ experience. I wished I had someone to mentor me when Andy was first diagnosed. That is when I thought about if there was a collection of ideas, thoughts and suggestions from parents who have had experience raising a child with special needs for parents of recently diagnosed, it would serve as a handbook. Imagine reading this and thinking, “I never knew that”, or “I didn’t know I was entitled to that service” or “I didn’t know that service even existed”.
I realize laws and services vary from state to state. That is why I have contributions from a variety of states listed.
Feel free to contribute what you wished you had known that will help someone now.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Ronna Glickman
Founder, Safebus
