As a human race, we are learning to navigate an unfamiliar and unpredictable present.  There is a high degree of confusion everywhere we look. The future looks uncertain. The thought of what could be, all the what ifs, are just too much to bear. We have been naturally forced into a situation that is way beyond our comfort zone. While we are trying to stay afloat, we are given no choice, but to believe that better days are coming.  Because they are.

This has been a horrific time for everybody.

Particularly for parents of special needs children. While there have been many different opinions about re-entering (or reopening) school buildings, one thing is for sure: Some kids benefit from online learning. Some don’t. Those are the kids I want to talk about.

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Firstly, every party involved in the process of re-entering schools should be engaged in decision making.

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To allow political leaders and local administrators to make a decision for your child is simply wrong.  Only you, as a parent, know your child’s needs and how this pandemic has affected your family life.  Routines have been dramatically disrupted. Families of children who present severe behaviors are struggling.  They need routine. They need learning. You need respite.

Everybody has a different opinion about reopening school buildings.

These are not times to follow leaders.  Like everyone else, they are making things up as they go.  The data looks dim, the stakes are high, and the risk is grave.  Yet, only you can advocate for your child.

My advice to parents is to look at your own world. Silence all the noise around you and think about what works for your family. Consider the risks.  Nobody knows your story. Only you have lived it and only you know how challenging it can be.

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You have been trusted with a life that is fragile. A child who requires intense levels of instruction.  
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It is OK to grieve the loss of what you knew.

Yet, you know you are strong.  Advocate for your child’s rights. Think outside the box. We are incredibly adaptable creatures. That is how we evolve. You can make good things happen.  

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