What does it mean to be a parent?
Does it mean being infallible? All-knowing? Invincible? Tireless? Self-sacrificing? Having a solution for every problem and an answer to every question?

No!

It means standing by your child every day in any way you can — with all your strengths and weaknesses, with all your vulnerability and generosity — and that is enough.

Parenting is magical. And contradictory. In the same moment you feel capable of everything, you may also feel that you’re doing everything wrong. Add to that the challenge of raising a child with unique intellectual, emotional, and social needs, and your reality may feel like a roller coaster ride — frantic, anxious, and exhilarating.

Anxiety, perfectionism, isolation, asynchrony, awards, recognition, praise, doubt, outbursts of anger. How could anyone ever be fully prepared for all of this?

Our children observe us. They learn through our actions and our example. One of the most valuable lessons we can offer them is to ask for help when they need it — and to choose to surround themselves with people who will hold their hand and stand by their side.