Most of us know how easy it is to get wrapped up in the quest to get a diagnosis. The evaluation process, doctor’s questions, therapist questions, fight to get services, the waiting, so on and so on. Often times during the evaluation process you will hear all about skills that your child is lacking, what they should be doing by this age but aren’t. It can be hard to listen to and it can become so easy to focus on what they can’t do and what they NEED to do, rather than what they CAN do.
Once you get that diagnosis(or even if you don’t), It is so very important to remember that they are still your child and they are more than a diagnosis or multiple diagnoses. Like all of us, they have strengths AND weaknesses. I promise that if you take time to focus on their positive aspects and strengths, you will quickly see that it will out weigh all of their weaknesses.
The “More than a Diagnosis” Challenge:
I challenge you to make a list of all of your favorite things about your child. Reflect on this list often! When your stress level is maxed, when your child has pushed all of their limits, when you are an emotional mess, remind yourself.
Remember that they are still the same beautiful child and that they are more than the challenging diagnosis you are battling to cope with.
Your list should include the following:
- Areas of Strength
- Positive Aspects
- Talents
- Relationships (brother, son, sister, niece, etc)
- Favorite Things
- You may choose to include their diagnosis
- Anything you want to include about your child!
Please feel free to share your list in the comments. If you are a blogger, I would love for you to join in and make blog post with your list.
Monkey
Age 4–PDD-NOS, Sensory Processing Disorder, Epilepsy, Asthma, Pica, Speech Delays
Bubba
Age 3–Speech Delayed
Baby
18 Months–Severe Reflux, Dysautonomia
Amanda, these are amazing! You are such a wonderful mom. Your boys are so blessed. They are amazing little guys. I accept the challenge, it is perfect timing. I need to reconnect with Carson. This will be perfect.
Be blessed
Twitter: loveismayhem
says:
What an awesome challenge. Beautiful, amazing children!
Monique recently posted..I Taught My Son About Discrimination Today
That is a wonderful list. You are too right, it is so easy to become consumed with the diagnosis on what is wrong. We need to stop allowing that enter our thoughts regularly. Making a wonderful list like you made is a great way to remind yourself of all your child CAN do and focus on that!
Your kids have amazing abilities and an even more amazing mother for recognizing them!
Victoria recently posted..Now Is The Time ~ No Kidding!
I think it is so important to focus on the positives. I know it can be easy to focus on the challenges but focusing on all the good brings more good to us! I want to do this about all of my students at school too!
Mariah recently posted..14 Conversation Hearts Crafts and Recipes
Twitter: thespringmount6
says:
Your boys are beautiful, and I love your lists. I hope many parents accept your challenge.
Debi recently posted..The Spirit of Giving Continues With White Cloud
What a wonderful boys you’ve got here! Reading your list makes me want to meet them. I adore your being such a great mother for raising them with personalities that are truly lovable.
Chester Liam recently posted..One employee injured, another missing after LaPorte gas factory explosion