Parents who work together can help create stable rules and routines for their children.
If you are a parent of a child with special needs, then you know the importance of a regular schedule and habitual routines. However, no matter how many times your child does the same thing at the same time every day, there is always going to be the potential for distraction. This is where strong communication from parents comes in. And strong parental communication relies on parents agreeing on the limitations, rules, and routines for their child. Here are a few communication tips that help to ensure you’re both on the same page.
Prepare Ahead of Time
Communication with your child is essential to help your child know what is and is not allowed. Before discussing problem behaviors with your child, make sure that you and your partner both discuss the conversation, predict how your child will react, and prepare responses. Preparing to address a big issue with your child ahead of time will help to ensure that you are both agreeing on what is best for your child and that one parent doesn’t say something that contradicts what another parent said at a different time.
Stay Updated
Odds are, both parents won’t be with their child together all of the time. It’s often when there’s only one parent around that there is a big breakthrough (or a big breakdown!). If something big happened while the other parent wasn’t around, be sure to communicate it to them the next time you’re together. Life can be hectic, and it’s understandable if things slip your mind. Try to make a note in your phone or on a piece of paper so that you will remember to have a conversation with your partner, or establish a time every day when you and your partner can talk about what happened when the other wasn’t around.
Reduce Stress
Children benefit greatly from a stable, loving home. It’s important that parents let each other know what help and support they need from the other. If you are a single parent, make sure that you are seeking out assistance when you need it. If possible, make time for the occasional date night to get out of the house and relax.
The Connections Therapy Center
The Connections Therapy Center serves families of children and adolescents with disabilities and special needs. We are a team of experts in the fields of pediatric speech, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and behavioral sciences. As a team, we offer intensive hands-on therapy for children and adolescents, as well as informative and useful resources for families. If you are interested in learning more about what we can do to help your family, visit us online or give us a call at (202) 561-1110 (Washington, D.C. office) or (301) 577-4333 (Lanham office). Want to get more information on how to help your child thrive? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, and Pinterest.