By Sara Yampier
Forming a bond with your child also helps them improve their social-emotional interactions and contributes to the development of language, cognitive, and motor skills. While bonding comes naturally to some parents, the smiles, giggles, hugs, kisses, and other outward signs that the child displays through bonding moments can reinforce to the parent that the child knows they are loved and cared for. Those outward signs for a child who has developmental challenges may not be as obvious, but those parents need to remember that the child can sense the bond and may still experience the same emotional reaction - even if it is not as noticeable. Therefore it is vital that parents who have a child with developmental delays provide the same level of bonding time as they would with any of their other children.
Capable of anything!
When a parent learns that their child may have developmental delays or medical conditions, they may wonder if they can bond with that child the same as they do with their other children. Even though achieving milestones can take longer than their typical peers, it’s essential to celebrate them and encourage them to try a more complex task. Starting from a young age, helping a child with special needs believe and understand that they are capable of anything is one of the best things that can be done for them.
Play time and accomplishment
Letting your child help with little tasks or using play therapy are ways to promote self-expression while providing a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Integrating stimulating activities, like music therapy, are ways for a child with special needs to adjust to their environment. The use of music therapy can help a child develop language skills while also helping them change speech patterns.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a single parent, co-parenting, or raising your child with your spouse; it is essential to recognize and understand the important role you have in their life. Working through grief, spending quality time, validating their feelings, and encouraging their aspirations are some ways to make your child understand the importance they have in your life. Most importantly, as a parent of a child with special needs, realize that you are more than capable of providing the love and support they need to live a fulfilling life.