As a parent, how do I interact with parents of typically developing children?

Many parents of children with special needs report feeling isolated from parents of typically developing children. There are probably a number of reasons for this, the first being that your experience as a parent is simply going to be different from theirs. They may not be able to relate to you or your child’s day-to-day struggles. They may also struggle to know what to say to you. Be patient with them. Educating others about how to interact positively with people with developmental disabilities and their families has always been challenging. Here are some suggestions:

• Try not to be too sensitive. Remember that others may not understand anything about your situation. Often, comments that seem rude are just fumbled attempts to be helpful. You’ll need to give people lots of leeway.
  
  
• Let others know that it’s okay to ask questions. Understanding comes through communication. Try to see others’ questions as attempts to understand you and your child and welcome them.
  
  
• Emphasize the positive. Everyone has something valuable to contribute—including your son or daughter with an intellectual disability, so don’t sell your child short. If all you tell people are the hardships in your life, that’s all they’ll see. Let people know about your child’s accomplishments, whatever they might be. They are just as valuable anyone else’s, and you have a right be proud of them.