Six Tips to Help Fathers Throughout the Year
Raising a child with a disability, while managing work and family responsibilities is no easy task for even the most dedicated parent.
“Fathering a special needs child requires inner strength, patience and extraordinary love for one’s son or daughter. Often times, these amazing dads are overlooked for their contributions,” said Deanna Picon, founder of Your Autism Coach, LLC and author of The Autism Parents’ Guide To Reclaiming Your Life [1]. “So, on this special day, let’s acknowledge those who give so much of themselves.”
Fathers can apply these simple tips to have a wonderful Father’s Day and throughout the year.
- Manage your health. It’s important to take care of yourself, especially with everything on your plate. Make time to eat properly, get at least six hours of sleep and exercise. Hitting the gym is an effective way to work off stress and stay fit. A simple walk around the neighborhood can clear your mind.
- Be yourself. Don’t allow your child’s disability to define you. Like any parent, much of your life is going to be centered on your children, but that doesn’t mean you should completely abandon the hobbies, events, and activities you enjoy doing. Keep in touch with friends and family.
- Give yourself permission to enjoy. Don’t feel guilty for having a good time, even if it’s only once in a while. Ask a close friend or relative to watch your child for a few hours, so you can go to the billiards hall to shoot some pool with your buddies. Go on a fishing trip. It will be beneficial to unload the weight of your responsibilities for a short time.
- Reward yourself. Appreciate the little things in your life each week, like inviting the guys over to watch the game or for a cookout. You could also buy some tools for your workshop or attend an auto show.
- Accept unspoken praise and appreciation. Your spouse or partner may be too overwhelmed in the midst of all the challenges the two of you face to tell you how much they care. Your special needs child may be unable to properly communicate how grateful they are that you accept and love them. Nevertheless, know that your child and family appreciate you and the difference you make in their lives.
- Take a bow! You stepped up and accepted the challenges of raising a child with special needs. Because of your determination and advocacy, your son or daughter will have a better life. That’s something worth patting yourself on the back about.
Your Autism Coach, LLC [2] provides superior coaching services and seminars that address the issues and concerns of parents of special needs children. Now on Twitter (@yourautismcoach), look for the latest parenting tips and advice from Deanna Picon.
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