The Reality of Parenting a Child With Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
It might look like we’re running late again; but the reality is he had a 30-minute meltdown on the stairs because he couldn’t handle transitioning to a different floor of our house.
I might look like a helicopter mom, controlling what he eats, scheduling out his day; but the reality is a lot of damage can be done with just one piece of red candy.
We might look like we have awesome toys; but the reality is they all have a therapeutic purpose.
I might look like a common housewife; but the reality is I know the definitions of “proprioceptive,” “vestibular,” “executive function” and so many more that they’re as common to me as “playdate” and “laundry.”
It might look like a “typical” childhood behavior to you; but the reality is that it affects his ability to function.
I might look like a bad mom for forgetting to bring his snack again; but the reality is I remember to bring his chewie, and that’s essential.
It might look like we’re just enjoying the playground or the pool; but the reality is I’m challenging him to get extra sensory input every chance I can.
It might look like a tantrum; but the reality is it’s a meltdown, and he desperately needs help to regain control.
I might look like I’m enjoying our large social gathering; but the reality is I’m trying to imagine what all the noise and chaos feels like to my son, wondering what might overwhelm him and how I can prevent it.
It might look like I’m exhausted, frazzled and on the edge of losing my cool, but the reality is I’m a mom of a child with sensory processing disorder.
The reality is my son is incredibly smart and ridiculously stubborn.
The reality is my son thinks in such a unique and creative way.
The reality is my son is one of my best friends.
The reality is my son is a blessing to our entire family.
Follow this journey on My Mundane & Miraculous Life.
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Julie is a frazzled mom of three tornadoes. As a dorky second-generation homeschooler, she writes about special needs parenting, learning and play, natural living, and matters of the heart on My Mundane and Miraculous Life. She serves an astounding God that radically saved her.
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