Parent Mentor Minutes
November 2022
The Holiday Season is in Full Swing!!
With Thanksgiving coming up, we are constantly reminded to be grateful for all that we have. Obviously, those who celebrated the first Thanksgiving never had to sit through ETRs and IEPs because if they had, they might understand that it can sometimes be hard to see the forest for the trees (sorry!), meaning that when you are consistently reminded that your child is perhaps a little different, or a little behind, or a little challenged--or all of those things--it can be difficult to be thankful in that moment. The struggle is real!!
As I know I have shared before, my boys are now grown adults. That doesn't mean that they have outgrown all of their challenges though. There are still struggles with communication, anxiety, hygiene, social skills on top of the more adult topics of work, bills, and household responsibilities. But...I have learned to be grateful. My husband and I have raised 2 pretty awesome humans. They are kind, funny, smart and genuine. My older son loves to paint, is super helpful in the kitchen, and is the best judge of character that I know. My younger son is an incredibly hard worker, couldn't tell a lie to save his life, and is great with little kids. We are incredibly lucky that they are ours.
So as you take time to reflect this month on all the things you have to be grateful for, think of the things that your child CAN do. Think of their strengths, how much joy they bring you and allow yourself to think about all of the wonderful things to come. Give yourself a pat on the back, too. Raising any child is not for the faint of heart; this can be especially true for those who have challenges that may be a little more than we expected.
Take care,
~~Beth
Community Resource Spotlight: Connecting for Kids
Every month they offer programming that includes support groups for parents, educational sessions, play groups for children, and more. Resources are available for many challenges children might face including social skills, major life changes (death/divorce), anxiety, sensory processing concerns, autism, epilepsy and more.
Below is their program flyer for November/December--and please make sure to visit their website at https://connectingforkids.org/.
Upcoming Events
Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training with Pete Wright
Register by DECEMBER 5 to ensure receiving FREE books in time for the Dec 10 training.
Registration link: https://mailchi.mp/ocali/familyuniversity?e=b80ca38abb
Empower Your Life Conference
Registration link: https://empoweringepilepsy-bloom.kindful.com/e/empower-your-life-conference?mc_cid=1f128daadb&mc_eid=46fd3ab51b
2023 Family Support Program through CCBDD
Application link: https://cuyahogabdd.jotform.com/222635395873971
One last thing......
About me...
Email: cartere@parmacityschools.org
Website: https://parentmentor.osu.edu/
Location: Parma City School District, OH, USA
Phone: (440) 843-3940
Twitter: @PCSDPM