It seems to me that many parents really struggle when faced with helping a special needs child. Of course there are different degrees of help, and some need more than others. A child with CAPD is an unusual case because often the disability is not recognized until the child enters school. I know this was true in our case with people saying our son was autistic-like, but didn't quite fit that mold, yet nobody could say was he was speech delayed. I thought I'd write some of the wonderful lessons I've learning having been blessed with such a unique son:

1) Patience: It takes a lot of patience to communicate when you aren't sure if the communication is understood.

2) Trust my intuition: I kept asking why my son never asked questions. Why didn't he talk? What was the cause. Nobody had an answer. Intuitively I was certain there was an answer, and I pursued it. I was right.

3) Connection is not about talking. My connection with my son is deeper because we learned how to communicate without words. This is the best lesson I've learned from my son.

4) Talking and hearing have nothing to do with intelligence. I had professionals tell me my son was neurologically damaged, that he might be slow because he responded slow when given directions. I knew my son was bright. Maybe not brilliant, but bright.

5) Helping is a great way to share your love. I have had so many opportunities to share my love for my son. Helping him is a wonderful gift for me.

What are the lessons you've learned from your children? I'd love to "hear"!

Take care,
Bonnie