31 for 21: 12 Commandments for Parents of Children with Disabilities

Twelve Commandments for Parents
of Children with Disabilities

I. Thou art they child’s best and most consistent advocate.
II. Thou hast valuable information about your child. 
Professionals need your input.
III. Thou shalt put it in writing and keep a copy.
IV. Thou shalt try to resolve problems at the lowest level, but not hesitate to contact a higher authority if the problem is not resolved.
V. Thou shalt keep records.
VI. Thou shalt seek out information when needed.
VII. Thou shalt take time to think through information before making a decision.
VIII. Thou shalt have permission to be less than perfect.
Important lessons are learned from both successes and failures.
IX. Thou shalt not become a martyr. Decide to take a break
now and then.
X. Thou shalt maintain a sense of humor. It is great for your emotional well-being and that of your child.
XI. Thou shalt always remember to tell people when they are doing a good job.
XII. Thou shalt encourage a child to make decisions because one day he or she will need to do so.


I found this while doing research online for a training I am doing now through the PEAL Center.  It really stuck to me and I just had to share it.  Here is the link that I found this from : http://www.pacer.org/parent/php/php-c35.pdf