Advocating is tricky business. It is down right hard work and it's important to stay focused on the matter at hand. Emotions, especially mommy emotions, can sometimes get in the way of being an advocate for your child. Emotional outbursts in meetings and conferences don't usually provide solutions.
I certainly believe that parents must deal with the feelings that come from being a parent of a child with learning differences. There is a place for that. Meetings, where the purpose is advocating for your child , is not the best place to let your "emotional hair down".
It's much easier to come up with workable solutions to problems and plan for a child's growth with a calm and controlled atmosphere. At times, this takes a lot of self control but it is worth it if your child gets a better program at school.
The next question is how are emotions left at the door? Well. Here are a couple of suggestions.
- Pray. Pray that you can stay calm and present your child's needs in the best possible way.
- Plan. Have a plan of exactly what your concerns are and what you would like to have implemented. Write it out. Practice what you want say. Be prepared.
Both of these strategies can help you stay focused and calm during school meetings.
Posted with Blogsy