Christine Marie L. Ramos TP in the Philippines
This experience has also broadened my understanding of children with- out disabilities. Every child grows and learns at their own pace, and they all face their own challenges. For example, a child who struggles with reading may find it hard to keep up with others, just as my son strug - gles with verbal communication. This perspective has made me more empathetic toward other parents and children. It has also taught me the importance of patience and encouragement. Moreover, my journey has connected me with a community of families navigating similar challenges. Social media platforms, local support groups, and workshops have provided a space for sharing experiences and insights. These interactions have reinforced the idea that every child has the potential to thrive. My son’s diagnosis has profoundly impacted my life, shaping my values and beliefs. I have learned to appreciate progress rather than perfection. I also have realized that embracing each child’s unique journey, along- side their abilities, should be at the forefront of parenting and education. This applies not just to children with disabilities but to all children. Children are often compared to puzzle pieces, each unique in shape and design. By respecting their unique shapes, we enable children to thrive in their development and education.
I wanted to take a moment to write this letter to share my experi- ence and how this changed my perspective on children’s education and development. I am a mother of a child with autism. My son has been diagnosed with level three autism since he was 2 years old. This meant that my son would face significant challenges in communication, social skills, and daily living activities. Receiving a diagnosis of autism for my son was one of the most overwhelming moments of my life. The initial shock and confusion often turned into feelings of despair and frustration. I found myself struggling with the reality of my son’s condition while simultaneously feeling inade- quate as a parent. The journey was painful, and acceptance did not come easily. In the early days, I poured my energy into trying to “fix” him, believing that if I could find the right therapies or approaches, my son could become “normal” like other children. This feeling was further compounded by the contrast between my reality and the seemingly effortless normal situations of oth - er children and parents. While they celebrated milestones like gradua- tions, school performances, and birthday parties, my calendar was filled with therapy sessions, doctor appointments, and the relentless pursuit of interventions and support services. Fifteen years later, my son remains non-verbal and still requires high assistance. The journey, however, taught me valuable lessons about ac- ceptance, individuality, and the importance of progress over perfection. I realized that the emphasis on perfection was not helping either of us. Instead, I learned to celebrate the small victories. For instance, when my son managed to make eye contact during a conversation or used pictures to communicate his needs, it felt like a monumental achieve- ment. Each step forward, no matter how small, reminded me to appre- ciate his unique journey and progress rather than comparing him to neurotypical children.
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SOURCE OF INSPIRATION
LETTERS TO MOTHERS
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