The Hardest Job in the World

So it happened. I had to tell a parent that I completely 100% disagree with another professional’s opinion. Yes, this was awkward. No, this was not my idea of a good time.

Like most KidSpeak kiddos, this little friend is involved in a variety of different therapies. For the past year and a half, I may not have completely agreed with every opinion coming from different professionals involved with her therapies, but we have been able to communicate with each other open-mindedly and with the main goal being to provide this little girl with an optimal plan of care. It has worked very well for the past year and half…….up until now.

Naturally, this little girl’s parents wanted my full opinion. They wanted guidance in making an ultimately life-changing decision. I told them my honest opinion. I told them my rationale behind that opinion. I told them in person and over email. And then I told them, “I can’t make this decision for you. You know your child the best. You know what she needs. You know better than any professional. Sure as professionals, our jobs are challenging. But you, as parents, have the most difficult job in the world. You are the experts on your child.”

There are currently so many different therapy models, therapy approaches, recommendations and medical opinions concerning Autism Spectrum Disorders. This is a great thing. There is more research being done and more results being revealed. There are options for your child and your family. This is wonderful. That doesn’t mean it is easy. There are different things to try, different things to continue, different things to discontinue, different things to make short-term and different things to make long-term. Ask a ridiculous amount of specific questions directly related to your child’s care. Ask to see research articles. Take in all the information and process it. Make a pros and cons list. Keep a journal about your child’s progress with specific therapies. Just remember, you know your child the best.

The next time you find yourself having to make an important, life-changing decision for your child, take a step back and remember…..you know your child the best. Forget about making therapists, doctors and other professionals happy. Do what will best benefit your child and their life long journey.

~Laura & Amanda
KidSpeak, LLC
www.kidspeakdallas.com