Making New Friends in the New Normal

Now that all the kids are going back to school, your child may notice that another child in their class, the hallway, at lunchtime or at recess is different than them.

Your child may come home and ask you or tell you about the differences. Perhaps they will mention their physical characteristics, their special chair, orthopedics, or their different behaviors. Maybe the child refuses to wear a mask or even seems scared or excited by people in them.

Maybe they will notice that another child flaps their arms or squeals frequently. Maybe they’ll notice another child who can’t seem to focus and needs extra help from school staff.

Here is your opportunity to be a gift to your child and to another child at their school.

It’s scientifically proven all behaviors stem from a need to belong.

Talk to your kids and answer their questions. If you don’t know the answer, encourage them to ask. Don’t teach them to be “polite” by ignoring. That’s not polite at all. The differently abled child belongs at school and deserves to be noticed too.

Maybe their flapping and squealing is because they’re so excited to be with other kids like yours and they just don’t have the words yet to express their excitement.

Teach yours to be kind.

Encourage them to ask them their name and call them by it. They can reassure them it will be okay when they seem to be having a tough day and to help when they are able.

I bet your child will be blessed by their interactions with their new friend. I bet your child will be taught lessons by their new friend you could never teach them on your own.

Moms and Dads, empower your kids and don’t be afraid of getting it wrong or being clumsy. You never know, you may get a new set of parent friends out of it yourself as you model loving others and being compassionate.

Have a good 2020-2021 school year!

Written by, Kayla Weaver

I am Kayla Weaver. I’m a coffee and Disney lover. I’m a special needs mom to an amazing, joyful, and brave 7 year-old, McKenzie. I have two older kiddos 10 and 12. I am now a stay-at-home mom. My husband is a lead minister so we are active in our church and the kids fill up the rest of our schedules with their busy.

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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.