Specially Abled Yet Hugely Capable The Role of a Parent in the Life of a Child with Special Needs
What can we as a people do to make every differently-abled child feel self-sufficient and independent? While it is important to advocate and create inclusivity, and to envision a world of equal opportunities, it is also widely agreed upon that only with the support of their parents can children truly understand their self worth.
No one is as interested and motivated to see a child succeed than his/her own parents. However, to play their role as parents responsibly, mothers and fathers of children with special needs should realise that their child, like every other child, is a ‘gift of God’. Instead of trying to ‘fix’ them, parents must accept them with love.
Below are some things to do as a parent of a specially abled child:
- Specially abled children need the right support, timely help and intervention to grow up as confident men and women. When the seeds of love are sown, children start overcoming their limitations and it starts to reflect in their behaviour. All they require is to be assured that someone is always by their side.
- Push them towards their passions, be it music, art, literature, or sports. As long as your child is happy, he/she will be motivated.
- Acceptance is what matters ultimately. Rather than viewing children with special needs as ‘different’, embrace them as they are and give them a sense of identity.
- As a society, we need to wake up to the reality of special needs. It’s important that we promote the idea that differently abled children stand to achieve just as much as any other children. They do need assistance and a lot of support, but they definitely do not need pity.
Many organisations have come up with unique ways to make a difference in the lives of these children, working tirelessly towards making them self-sufficient. At PCF’s Mata Bhagwanti Chadha Niketan, for instance, trainings are not only limited to children; their parents are equally involved. The school is dedicated to providing its specially-abled students their rightful place in a society that not only accepts them, but also respects them for their abilities.
Ayush Chamoli is one such MBCN student with multiple disabilities. Watch how his mother’s immense strength, and the complete support of his family and school helped Ayush achieve great heights.