Once you accept that your child will be different, not better or worse – just different – that’s the first step. ~ Unknown

Today, the letter is O, and the word is OVERWHELM.  

Overwhelm is a common feeling experienced by parents of children who have trouble reading and learning.

Dealing with learning differences can be a complex and uniquely challenging experience that affects you emotionally, mentally, and physically.

They feel overwhelmed because they:

• Feel responsible for their child’s difficulties. They may blame themselves for not recognizing their child’s struggles earlier, for not providing enough support, or for passing on genes that contribute to the difficulties.

• Feel guilty for not doing enough to prevent their child’s difficulties, or for not being able to “fix” their child’s struggles. This guilt can be particularly strong if the parents themselves did not have reading or learning difficulties, as they may wonder why their child is struggling when they did not.

• Feel isolated and alone, especially if they feel like they are the only ones going through these difficulties, or that other parents do not understand the challenges they face. This sense of isolation can be exacerbated if the child’s school or community is not supportive or understanding of their needs.

Navigating the educational system, advocating for their child’s needs, and finding resources and support can also be overwhelming.

Coping with overwhelm when parenting a child with learning differences can be a challenging experience. These feelings of overwhelm can impact your mental health and wellbeing, making it harder for you to support their child effectively.

Here are 3 steps to help you:

1. Acknowledge and accept your feelings, instead of trying to push them away or feeling guilty for having them.
2. Seek out support from family, friends, or professionals who can provide a listening ear, practical advice, or emotional encouragement.
3. Prioritize self-care, such as setting boundaries, taking breaks, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation.

Most importantly, educating yourself about your child’s needs, advocating for their education, and finding appropriate resources can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and there are many resources available to help you and your child thrive.

If your child has trouble reading and learning, join the Parenting Hub, where you can connect and network with parents who share similar challenges, ask questions, and seek solutions. If you know someone who has a child with learning differences, send them the above link.