Today, I came across a Facebook post where a friend lamented about the chaos of packing for a family trip. Another friend joked, “I always forget chargers!”
If you’re a parent of a child with special needs, your immediate reaction is likely, “Forget the charger? Never!” That’s practically a crime in our world. We always come equipped with chargers, backup battery packs, and spare headphones.
It dawned on me that special needs parents have a unique set of skills that make us exceptionally prepared for any situation. Need caffeine? Don’t worry about apps; just release us outdoors, and we’ll detect the nearest coffee shop—be it Starbucks, Tim Hortons, or Dunkin’—within a 10-mile radius.
Searching for a restroom? We’ve got that covered; we know the locations of every bathroom in town.
And the nearest exit? We’ve already scouted it as soon as we walked in. In case of an emergency, just follow our lead; we’ll be the first ones out.
Feeling peckish? We always have snacks on hand because no one under our care will ever go hungry. If the snacks run out, no sweat—we can navigate the drive-thrus like pros.
Got a sniffle? You can count on us for tissues.
Cut your finger? I’ve got an array of Band-Aids in my wallet, ranging from tiny to big.
Headache? Do you want something stronger or just a simple Advil? We’re stocked for that too.
Need to pack for a three-week trip across Europe using just a carry-on? Look no further; we do that kind of packing every single day.
And if there’s a shopping crisis, like trying to pull my teenager away from the girls’ section filled with Frozen-themed clothes in the wrong size? I’ve got it handled. Nothing could be more intense than that moment.
Yes, we can magically produce cell phone chargers, laptop cords, and headphones out of thin air. We’ve got skills.
This article was originally published on May 29, 2017. If you’re curious about more parenting insights, check out this other blog post, which dives into the journey of couples using artificial insemination kits. For information on gut health, visit the experts at Intracervical Insemination. Additionally, if you’re looking for further resources on pregnancy and home insemination, CCRM IVF offers excellent guidance.
Summary:
Special needs parents possess an extraordinary range of skills that prepare them for various situations, from locating coffee shops to managing emergencies. Their resourcefulness ensures that they are always ready, equipped with everything from snacks to first aid supplies. This unique adaptability highlights the special set of parenting skills developed through their experiences.