Beside the fact that a child with disabilities may need closer supervision or a helper or aide, the quality of our time should be good for all kids in my opinion.
It is our attitude when helping with daily repetitive chores that might become boring for us, and the kids could feel we don't care or act nurturing enough.
But, how much nurturing is enough?
I think if we give with a helping and positive attitude that we are being nurturing. I think a positive attitude is the most important kind of nurturing we can give.
As kids see us as role models and are learning patterns of behavior for themselves by our example, if we give with a positive attitude they will in turn learn how to be positive in their relationships with others, now, and later with their own kids.
There is a phrase that goes something like, we learn what we teach. I think we can learn to be positive people by relating with kids and other adults in a positive manner.
When we do something repetitively we may have a hard time holding onto a positive outlook. Then, it's time to take a break, whether a few minutes to go for a walk or for a weekend away.
Some kids may need adult attention every day to get through their routine needs, but to keep up with those needs, the adults need to nurture themselves with quality time in rest and relaxation.
When we have kids that need lots of nurturing, care in an intense way, it may be helpful to share some of those duties with other adults or older kids in the family. Older siblings can play a game or read to a younger child needing attention. And a babysitter can give a mother respite to get the family shopping done or attend an appointment, or give the parents' some quality time to themselves.
I think it is important to maintain the parents' relationship as well as give the kids the amount of nurturing they need. With others helping out with some of the duties, it can all be accomplished in a positive and productive way.
Article by Susan Kramer
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