Sutton Parents Forum

When you are parenting a child or young person with a disability or an additional need, things are often not quite the same as they are for other families. We have to adapt things, do things differently or reassess our expectations. Often, this group of children and young people may develop different behaviours that may seen unconventional to others, particularly if some of those behaviours can become difficult or dangerous.

All of this can make you feel very isolated, alone and misunderstood.  At exactly the time you most need understanding, practical support and kindness, instead it's far too common for parents in this situation to become the target of wrongful accusations and assumptions. This means that when you most need to feel good about yourself so that you have the strength and confidence to best support your child through their own difficult times, other people may be giving you a very difficult time too. As a result of this lack of understanding from others, it means that far too often, you are left feeling crushed, broken, and with your self-esteem in tatters. When you feel like this, everything becomes harder, including parenting. 

By the end of the session you'll have a much better understanding of why these things cause so much damage, and what you can do to protect yourself from all the unfair things that people can say and do.