Everyone, no matter the circumstance or history, has days where they are just struggling.  Struggling to see the silver lining, struggling to think anything positive about themselves.  We all have those days.  Would it be a stretch to say that perhaps parents of children with special needs have those days more than others?  Maybe.  Maybe not.  I do know that when I read this list, I immediately felt a little bit better about myself.  This list is a nice reminder that while our struggles are many, we grow and learn constantly.  I think it’s true.  Tell me if you agree.  I found this list from Apraxia Mama’s blog.  And she found it over at Disability Resource Exchange.

Ten Great Traits of Parents of Children with Special Needs

10. Camaraderie: meet someone new + find out they have a child with special needs = instant friend.

9. Sense of humor – it carries us through even the worst of days.

8. Appreciation – for what’s truly important in life.

7. Determination – a “do whatever it takes” attitude.

6. Vigilance – often anticipating and heading off potential problems before they happen.

5. Empathy – for others facing challenges in life, whatever those challenges may be.

4. Intellectual prowess – from reading all those research studies!

3. Resourcefulness – more often than not, we find a way or make a way.

2. Strength – mental, emotional, and physical — and stamina, too.

1. Courage – we face challenges head on that we once could never have fathomed.

There are lots more great traits of parents of children with special needs – can you add to the list?

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