Parenting with a disability can certainly be a challenge, and sometimes parents who live with a disability can feel that they aren’t able to fully engage with their children. But that definitely doesn’t have to be the case.
Jill Koval, the Director of Psychological Services at Shepherd Center, shares tips for ways parents with disabilities can be a positive force in their children’s lives. She writes specifically for parents with acquired spinal cord injuries, though her advice can apply to parents with a wide range of disabilities.
- Be a Role Model: By simply moving forward, you can “show your children that life doesn’t end when there is an unexpected, unwelcome and catastrophic injury or illness.”
- Be a Teacher: “You can teach your children, their friends and their friend’s families about disability and being an advocate for people with disabilities.”
- Be a Team Player: Even if you have physical limitations, you can still teach your children about meaningful contribution. Show them all the ways you contribute to your family. And also ask for them to pitch in when appropriate. “Children love to help and feel a sense of importance when they know they are helping.”
- Be You: “You can demonstrate that while a person may function differently, you are still the same person and can be a great, caring and loving parent.”