Episode 12: Meeting the Needs of Challenging Children

My mother has had some health issues over the last few years which has led to the need for us to anticipate where she may need some accommodations to protect her from falling. This has meant moving furniture around, removing some rugs, and even finding ways to help her up the steps to the front door.  While we wish we didn't have to make changes, we do it because we want her to be part of our lives and we know that she is not playing at being weak or have balance problems, but is really struggling.

This is the same way we need to consider our interactions of children who face challenges in their attempts to be part of their homes, schools, and communities. Unfortunately, many adults often feel as if they are being manipulated by the child, who should be able to just "get over it" when dealing with fears and phobias, or "just work harder" when struggling with school work. Is it surprising then, when they reach their breaking point and have a meltdown?

I would like to tell you about a young man who was shown the respect he deserved by his school to anticipate and accommodate his needs so that he could truly be part of a major life experience.