When Mother’s Day is Hard
Mother’s Day for a special needs mom does not look like everyone else’s day…
I spent my Mother’s Day redirecting behaviors that were furiously present this week. I’m not saying this as negative, I’m saying it because it’s true, and I’m recognizing the hard.
I try to share the good more than the bad, but sometimes the hard is an important part of our story too. It isn’t always positive new skills, or new words, or meds that work for a day or two.
There was no sleeping in or special breakfasts. It was the same as any other day…first/then behavior modeling, redirecting hours of bed flopping, defending my ankles and shins against floor flops and protective holds for safety. And hours and hours of “we have to share with our sister”.
Spinning, slamming his body into things, jumping on furniture, crashing, inappropriate laughter, scripting, self-injurious behavior.
Today is hard.
Today is lots of tears.
Today is loud noises.
Quarantine has done us in.
The lack of school, lack of therapy, the isolation, no routine – we are hitting the point where play is no longer functional and taking a ride isn’t enough
He wants the zoo and swimming and we feel like we are trapped.
I am tired, we are all emotional – I feel like we are losing him again and autism and anxiety are winning.
So, to the mama who hid her tears yesterday, who felt like she wasn’t doing enough, who wished for crafts and homemade cards, who doesn’t know how she will make it to bedtime, who raised her voice, who is searching for answers of how to help her child, who wanted to push the reset button, I see you!
You are not alone and you ARE a good mom!
Written by, Amanda DeLuca
Amanda is a mom of two, her oldest son is on the autism spectrum and was non-verbal until the age of four. She is a master iep coach, owns a dance studio, and writes for her page Jackson’s Journey, Jackson’s Voice.
Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.
