Down Syndrome Acceptance–12 of 21

When you are the parent of a child with Down syndrome, you often celebrate milestones and accomplishments with the enthusiasm that some celebrate their team winning the Superbowl.  This is evident by the responses I received after asking a group of local parents to finish the following sentence.

You know you’re a parent of a child with special needs when:

…when you film your child jumping with both feet! But it’s probably not that safe. But who cares ’cause he’s doin’ it and no one got hurt (this time).

…when you post 837 pictures of him every week because the whole world needs to see how beyond-adorable and magnificent he is!

…when you feed your special kiddo mini corn dogs in spite of their lack of nutrients because they provide a great opportunity for fine motor exploration!

…when you’re shocked that you only have to stay one night in the hospital for respiratory distress. Say what?!?! 

…when you hear she’s jumping off a table at school and think, “good core work!”

…when you hear a bang in the TV room and find that she’s pulled the DVD player out from behind the TV, pushed play, and is now making her way to the couch to get settled to watch “Signing Time” when you just told her no. My first thought was ‘great problem solving!!’

…when you post every experience you give him. Because his life has no limitations!

…when he writes “Bowser’s room” on his wall and you think it’s awesome he spelled “Bowser” and “room” and you leave it up.

…when your first reaction when you find her on the piano stealing candy is elation over her improving gross motor skills. (And you take a picture to document it before you remove her to keep her from falling.)

…when you’re excited that your child uses a great pincer grasp to pick up an old piece of candy off a dirty city street.

…when your child spits on his sister and think…SWEET! Let’s take that to the bathroom during teeth-brushing time!!

…when you’re excited anytime your child defies the stereotypes!

…when your child curses and think “his speech is so clear!” He can’t say “milk” with clarity, but the curse word could be recognized by anyone. Go figure…