Parents raising kids with special needs share real stories, real challenges, and what they wish others knew about support, inclusion, and connection.
In this episode of Hope and Will: A Parenting Podcast from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, we’re joined by three incredible guests who are raising children with special needs. Together, they help us better understand what life is like for their families and provide insight to help parents harness kids’ natural curiosity and turn it into something positive. They share examples of big and little gestures that go a long way to help their kids feel loved and accepted.
Jenn is Mom to Wyatt, who has dwarfism. Nicole is Mom to Ruby, who has Down syndrome. And Neil is Dad to Jack, who is on the autism spectrum and communicates through a tablet.
You’ll hear what helps their kids feel supported in everyday settings like schools and sports, and what well-meaning people sometimes get wrong. They share advice for families starting their own special needs journeys, as well as support that makes a real difference for them as parents.
Before the panel discussion, you’ll also hear from Dale Spivey, a school social worker, double amputee and former Children’s patient, who reflects on her own childhood and the message her parents taught her early on: When life knocks you down, you turn your foot around and get back up.
This heartfelt conversation is an honest look at parenting and the small gestures that help every child feel like they belong.
For more about this episode and our podcast, visit www.choa.org/podcasts.
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This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be considered medical advice for any particular patient. Clinicians must rely on their own informed clinical judgments when making recommendations for their patients. Patients in need of medical or behavioral advice should consult their family healthcare providers. In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department. Product mentions are not endorsements.