Keep Trying

We used to not be able to safely ride in the car as a family.

Let that sink in for a moment.

We had to take two cars, Jamie and I separating the boys, or one of us had to ride in the back with the kids and even then it wasn’t all that safe. At one point we had to have a safety plan.

We couldn’t turn left. Or stop at stoplights. Road construction was the worst. Slowing down wasn’t allowed.

I’d tell friends that we couldn’t go through drive thrus or stop and get gas.

I think most didn’t believe me. Unless you live it it’s hard to believe.

Car safety. It’s a real thing that families like mine have to practice.

But we practiced. We trialed and errored. We worked on our son’s anxiety before and the build up that would almost always push him over the edge when we were packing up for a trip.

So, we practiced. We went on fake trips.

We would drive around for 1 minute to practice. And then build up and up. We figured out hot spots and timers and rewards and first and thens. We figured out how to arrange the kids and have success.

A few days ago, we took a family trip for spring break. It was a 3 hour drive. Longer with bathroom breaks. And we did it together. All in one vehicle.

A vehicle packed the brim with bags and food and a stroller.

And people. Seven in total.

We did it.

It only took six years.

Keep practicing. If your kiddo struggles with car safety…trust me I know. I really, really know. We felt paralyzed at times.

Keep trying. Ask therapists for help and to practice with you.

Keep trying.

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. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and join our supporter page, Coop’s Troops, for an amazing community full of support and understanding.