When my first child, Tom, started to show signs that he had a learning difference at the age of 18 months, I jumped very quickly on it and did everything in my power to get him help. I did this not out of any special skill or talent but because I remembered very clearly what it felt like to be totally lost in a classroom. In 1971 I was in the first grade and miserable. I … [Read more...]
Special Recognition
One of the biggest lessons I have learned these last 13 years as the mother of a daughter with significant special needs is that I have to adjust my expectations and enjoy every triumph my Lizzy attains on her terms. Yet every so often I get the chance to feel just like any other proud mama, “special” or not. I had such a moment last week. A few weeks ago I received a … [Read more...]
The Next Frontier for a Princess & Her Mom
I don’t know what I expected to find on Wednesday when I went to a open house at the school for special needs children my daughter will be attending next year. But I didn’t expect to feel such profound sadness. Will I ever completely accept my daughter’s limitations? As I walked the hallways with the other parents, I started to have my doubts. Lizzy will … [Read more...]
Educating Lizzy
The other day I had my annual parent/teacher conference for my 13-year-old daughter. Each and every time I visit Lizzy’s school, I’m assaulted with a range of emotions, from gratitude and respect for the school’s teachers and staff to dread and sadness as I get buzzed through the heavy doors and enter the lobby. I smile at the attendants at the front desk as I sign the guest … [Read more...]
The Princess and the Parent Intake Form
The clock said 2:30. I took a sip of tea and did my best to enjoy the remaining moments of calm before the kids started coming home from school. Then the phone rang. A sweet, young voice was on the other end. It was a psychologist from our daughter Lizzy’s school. Usually I panic whenever one of the kids’ schools call. This time I didn’t ask if all was well with Lizzy. … [Read more...]
