worried about; you might be surprised to find out that she is much more at ease than you thought. Don’t overindulge to “compensate.” Extra video games or unlimited treats, for example, do not have anything to do with your child’s disability. Stick to “typical” rules, while allowing for occasional leniency in circumstances that really do relate to his disability. Don’t be too tough. Tough love doesn’t work with atypical kids. Atypical children are more fragile. Get to know your child and work with her consciously and gently.
What You Can Do To Help
Step in when necessary. Some atypical kids are prone to social isolation and depression. Teachers, even if unintentionally, can exacerbate the problem. Keep an eye on your child and have open communication so he’ll feel comfortable confiding in you. You are your child’s advocate, and your child will need assertive intervention at times. This is not “babying” your child. It’s part of your job as a proactive parent of an atypical child. Encourage participation. Don’t limit your child’s activity options based on what you think she can’t do. If she really wants to join that club or try that sport or take those lessons, chances are there is a way to make it happen. Enjoy the present. Staying in the moment and noticing your amazing child as he unfolds is an important—and joyful— exercise. Take a short break from the everyday jostle to savor small moments of just being together. Express gratitude daily. Before bed, perhaps at tuck-in time, encourage your child to think about what she’s thankful for. And always be sure to chime in with a few contributions of your own. Rita Eichenstein, Ph.D., is a leading pediatric neuropsychologist, renowned in the field of child development, and author of Not What I Expected: Help and Hope for Parents of Atypical Children (Perigee) and the popular blog Positively Atypical! by Dr. Rita Eichenstein (positivelyatypical.com). For more information, visit drritaeichenstein.com.
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