When you have a special child – Pustak Foundation

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o, you have a special child. A child who has different needs, one that is not ‘normal’ as per the societal standards. Well, in that case we have different needs too. Are we ‘normal’? Not even two kids or two persons in a family are same. So, in a way we all are special. Isn’t it?

It must be really disappointing to see that your child is facing developmental delays while other kids of the same age are reaching their milestones. Not only this, it must be little frustrating to see their parents bombarding the social media of the achievements of their little ones. But don’t worry. Your kid is special in his/her own way and has the most special way of developing.

As a teacher, I can tell you: It’s amazing to have a special child in the classroom. What a special child needs the most is ‘love’ and with some extra love they can reach their true potential. A special child has to struggle to overcome life’s challenges at every step. We don’t know what it’s like to be in their shoes. However, with your help his/her journey can become so much easier.

Few bullet points for you to remember when you are around a special kid: • Tell them what they can do Don’t tell them what they can’t do. They may have learning problems or difficulty in completing the tasks that other kids might do easily but no one likes to hear what they can’t do.

• Be their friend Everyone needs a friend. Be a friend to your child with whom he/she can share everything without the fear of being judged.

• Happy memories Create as many happy memories as you can. There are already so many experiences your child is missing. With favourite foods banned and favourite activities avoided, things are stressful for your child as well. If he can’t have fun with his friends, you can be his friend for the weekend. Engage in activities with your child.

• Special child is an umbrella term and is very broad. Each child is unique and that’s why you can’t find the ready-made recipe of how to deal with your child in a book. Find out what works for your child. Also, take help from the experts.

• Own speed Let them learn at their own speed. They might have difficulty in learning but they have amazing strengths It’s time to discover that hidden talent. Everyone learns more when they are in a non-threatening environment. So, never be in a hurry to teach them something. Give them easy instructions and repeat them as many times as you can.

• Understand your child Of course, you know your child well but do you really know what’s going on in his/her mind deep within? So, put some extra effort to know what he/she is really trying to convey. Observe your child carefully to know what he/she might be thinking or feeling.

• Acceptance I know you didn’t want this or you aren’t prepared for this. It’s challenging but with love you can conquer everything. Accept your child the way he/she is. No comparison with other kids. Give them hope to walk that extra mile. Be their strength.

Times have changed so let’s learn how to know and interact with special kids instead of teaching them how to interact with the ‘normal’ world. Just give them your unconditional love and you’ll see they’ll love you more. A special child in my class wouldn’t let go of my hand and would accompany me everywhere. They’re so full of love. So, instead of mourning, step up and help your child to reach his full potential.