This goes back to being
careful not to assume that your family or friends “get” your situation with
your child with special needs. Open ended questions will help you figure this
out and might put their minds at ease. Pick up the phone. Let Aunt Jackie know
that you want to answer any questions she has about little James. Start by
telling her that you are really excited to see her for Thanksgiving. Then ask
very simply, “What can I answer about James that you might be wondering about
these days?” If she is nervous, expect that to be the case. Continue by asking
her if you can share some of his latest accomplishments/setbacks with her.
Hopefully she will welcome the opportunity to learn more about your child. If
not, don’t beat yourself up. You are advocating for your child, and it is good
practice for future conversations that you will have with more accepting people
in your child’s life.
