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A Letter to My Child With a Disability: You Can Be Anything You Want to Be

27/08/2018 - 07:00 PM

To My Amazing Child,

Another Summer has come and gone and now you're back in school [1]. I know you hate it. And I know it's because of your ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) [2]. Although your ADHD comes with many gifts, like your fierce creativity and ability to think outside the box, it also comes with many challenges other neurotypical children don't have to deal with.

You've been blessed with an extraordinary mind. You are incredibly intelligent and are able to notice things most people can't. You have a unique way of seeing the world, and when it comes to something you're interested in, you have so much passion and enthusiasm. These are all fantastic traits that will take you very far in life.

However, you also have the type of brain that never rests [3]. You're constantly noticing everything, which leads to you becoming distracted and lost in your thoughts. As a result, you sometimes miss important information, lessons, and assignments, and to your teacher and classmates [4], you may appear lazy and disrespectful. I know that is not the case at all, and I need you to know that, too.

Focusing at school [5] (and, later on, at work) will probably always be difficult for you, but I want you to know that I have your back, no matter what. I will always do my best to find out what works best for you and to help your teachers realise just how extraordinary you really are. As you get older, I will help you learn to advocate for yourself. Never feel ashamed or embarrassed to ask for help or an accommodation [6]. You don't need to fit into their box, and honestly, I would never want you to.

The sky is the limit for you. Yes, you may think "differently" than many of those around you, but that's what makes you so special. Keep dreaming, because you can truly be anything you want to be. But always remember to be you, because, baby, you're amazing just the way you are.

Love You Always,
Mom


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https://www.popsugar.co.uk/parenting/Letter-My-Child-ADHD-45204881