When raising a child with special needs, it’s very easy to constantly compare your child to other children. In doing so, you soon realize that it does nothing but depress you and allow you to focus on all of the things that your child is not doing. When MJ was about 4 years old, I decided that I would not do that any longer and I would focus on any and all accomplishments MJ had.
So…
We celebrated when he learned the names of objects around the house.
We celebrated when he used his toothbrush for the first time.
We celebrated when he took a bath without assistance and then eventually learned to shower.
We celebrated when he learned to safely use the hot versus cold water.
We celebrated when he learned to dress himself.
We celebrated when he went to school and didn’t try to hide in the classroom closet.
We celebrated when he started speaking in 2 word phrases (“juice please”).
We celebrated when he was able to sit at a restaurant for 10 minutes without having a meltdown.
We celebrated when he went to a store and helped with selecting grocery items instead of running through the store.
We celebrated when he stopped running into the street as soon as the front door was opened.
We celebrated when he learned his address and phone number.
We celebrated whenever he tried a new food.
And this continues today…
Don’t compare your children to anyone else. They are perfectly unique and a one-of-a-kind design. Celebrate their individuality and their successes no matter how small you think they may be- For we know those victories really aren’t small at all.
NickysdayWithAutism 
Great advice, Nicky, which applies to whether a child has special needs or not. I’ve seen so many parents try to impose their own expectations on their kids, with dire results (Mostly because they wanted their kids to do what they themselves were never able to, for one reason or another). Everyone’s different – allow them to thrive in their own way, and they will surprise you 🌺
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So true! We need allow our kids to be their own unique selves.
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Well -stated!
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Good point which is important with all children in general, but yes, even more so with a special needs child. I regret not celebrating more of Nathan’s accomplishments which were kind of taken for granted. Thankfully there is still a little time left. Keep up the good work and great tip; you are my rock star!
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Thank you so much! I could have really fallen into a deep depression if I didn’t learn to appreciate all of MJs accomplishments.
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Each child is unique and special in their own ways. Great way of instilling confidence.
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Exactly 😊
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Great advice for all parents!
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For sure!
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Aww this is so important to remember! Thanks for sharing.
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Thanks for reading😊
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This is the best advice for all parents. Each child needs their space to be who they are and not be compared with anyone!
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It’s so important!
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yes
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