In this article we’re sharing seven tips to help dads bond with their children with special needs…
Being a dad is a special journey filled with love, laughter, and unique challenges. When it comes to bonding with children who have special needs, it’s important for fathers to create nurturing and supportive connections that can foster growth and happiness.
So, dads, let’s dive in and discover how you can create lasting bonds with your exceptional children while navigating the realm of SEN legal advice.
1. Spend Quality Time
As with any child, it’s important to spend quality time with your SEN kid. You may also find that your child needs a little bit more reassurance and attention, making it even more important to provide them with the support they need.
While it can be difficult to juggle time with your child with work and other responsibilities, this is a vital part of bonding.
2. Factor in Flexibility
Flexibility is crucial for supporting a child with special educational needs (SEN). Their unique requirements may vary day to day, and being adaptable allows parents to meet those needs effectively. It creates a nurturing environment, reduces stress, and promotes the child’s overall well-being. Embracing flexibility ensures they receive the individualised care and support necessary for their growth and development.
3. Find a Shared Interest
For many people, the secret to bonding with a child is to find a shared interest whether that’s a creative activity such as art or photography or one which takes you out into the great outdoors. When a parent and child share a hobby or interest, they form a kind of club which can really help to solidify their bond.
4. Learning to Listen
For special needs children, expressing their emotions can be challenging, leading to frustration when trying to communicate with their parents. In our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook this crucial aspect. However, actively listening to your special needs child, understanding both their spoken and unspoken words, is vital for building a strong bond and creating a sense of safety and validation. Taking the time to truly hear them allows for deeper connection and ensures they feel heard and understood.
5. Sensory Exercises
Many special needs children have heightened sensory sensitivity, making every day stimuli like noise and lights distressing for them. From an early age, get into the habit of doing sensory exercises with your child as this will not only make life more manageable for them but it will also help you to better understand what life is like for your child. Whether your child has a physical challenge or a learning disability, there are many exercises which can help them feel more connected with the things around them.
6. Seek Support
Parenting a special needs child can sometimes feel isolating and it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. In England, just under 1.5 million pupils have special needs – and many of those dads are probably feeling exactly the same way that you are.
Don’t hesitate to seek help and support when needed, including exploring sen teacher jobs. Start by reaching out to places like a special needs high school, as they can provide guidance on available assistance and resources you may be entitled to. Additionally, consider joining support groups where you can connect with other dads facing similar challenges. These groups can offer invaluable support, understanding, and a sense of community. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone – there are resources and people ready to offer support along the way.
Facing the World Together
Bonding with your child begins with immersing yourself in research to gain a thorough understanding of how the world appears through their eyes. This valuable knowledge serves as the foundation for building a deep and enduring relationship based on empathy and shared interests.
By delving into resources, books, and online communities that provide insights into your child’s unique needs and experiences, you can develop a profound understanding of their perspective. This understanding becomes the catalyst for fostering empathy, as it allows you to connect with them on a more profound level.
