Parents of a child with LD, ADHD or associated difficulties likely spend a lot of time trying to understand their child’s difficulties and working to provide support for their child in school, at home and during outside activities. They often walk that very fine line between helping their child so that s/he does well today and doing whatever is necessary so that their child might be independently successful in the future.
In the midst of all this loving activity, it’s easy to forget to address one’s own needs. If your exhaustion, frustration, or worry is not allowing you to be at your best, how can you give your best?
Parents need time to relax, renew, and reconnect, with a walk around the block, a heartfelt conversation, a night out, or an undisturbed bath. Having taken the time to “give back to yourself” as you might advise a friend to do – you will return to the situation with fresh perspective and energy.
Putting yourself first, at least occasionally, is not selfish; it is a practical necessity. What are you doing for yourself today that will allow you to be the parent you want to be?
