I know this is a taboo subject when it comes to parenting, or any issue in the disabled world. We are supposed to be inspiring to others, overcoming “challenging feats” and all that jazz. We are supposed to smile and be grateful to be alive, no matter our circumstances. It’s hard for me to admit […]
disabled mom
Staring: Different as a Parent?
I’ve dealt with people staring at me my entire life. Ever since I can remember, people would stare, surprised that I don’t have any legs and only have one arm. I’ve always just ignored it, or tried to ward off pesky starers by staring back, or saying something “clever.” Adults and children both stare. Most […]
Learning to Adapt
This is the first morning of school after Spring Break, and if you are a parent going through the same routine, I salute you. My son is the most wonderful experience that I will ever have, but sometimes I just want to put my power chair at full speed and drive away screaming! I am […]
The Travel System: Disability Considerations
As you prepare to become a parent to a baby or young toddler, you will find there are complete “travel systems” which include the carseat, base, and a stroller. This is one of the endless choices you will face while baby-shopping – to get a travel system or not, and which brand of carseat and stroller […]
Disabled Nursing: A Breastfeeding Mom’s Solutions
Nursing was my son’s and is my daughter’s favorite activity, hands down! Speaking of hands, the fact that I only have one presents certain challenges during breastfeeding. I totally encourage others who are able and interested to breastfeed – it sure beats fixing a bottle in the middle of the night! That said, formula feeding is a […]
The “Real” Reason I’m A Helicopter Mom
Helicopter mom. If you’re a millenial parent, then surely you’ve heard term. Those of us bestowed with this less than charming title are given it because we tend to “hover” over our children in public, swooping in to rescue them at the first sign of danger. Venture over to any public playground and you will […]
Babywearing with a Disability Twist
Babywearing is all the rage, at least here in Austin, Texas! Using a sling or baby carrier can be a great option for many disabled parents and may provide an alternative to a stroller, or help free up your hands to, oh, I don’t know, actually do something when you have a baby. Here’s my […]
Reflections From Parenting With a Disability
On a recent visit to the doc’s office that coincided same week my daughter returned to school, I welcomed verbiage bestowed upon me that included the following: “You lost 2 lbs, you have such white teeth, you don’t look old enough to have a child in college.” *Thinks well, it don’t crack* A bit less welcomed however […]
When My Toddler Daughter Wasn’t Invited To A Party Because Of Me
It had taken some courage to sign our daughter up for a toddler gymnastics class in our community. The class required parent participation and with the bouncy floor and various obstacles, we knew it wouldn’t be easy. My husband and I had seen the room, considered where and how we could move about in our […]