In my previous blog, I shared my thoughts on the importance of encouraging and boosting the motivation of children with special needs. It can be a challenging task, but helping them step out of their comfort zone and gain firsthand experiences from the real world can have a huge impact.
Raising a child with special needs can be a difficult journey for families, and it is important to recognize the challenges that they face. Special needs families often deal with isolation, limitations to social lives and activities, and the need for meticulous planning for family outings. Additionally, the emotional stress of judgement from others who may not understand or accept children with different abilities can be overwhelming.
Importance of Experiencing the Outside World for Special Needs Children
Despite these challenges, it is crucial for special needs children to experience the outside world, which can help open their senses and minds and encourage exploration. Parents must take on the responsibility of showing their children the beauty of the world and helping them find their unique purpose to overcome their challenges and reach their full potential.
Children with special needs often have anxiety, fears, and confusion in new situations, leading them to isolate themselves, typically at home where they feel safe. This is why they tend to become introverted and prefer to stay in their “cocoon.” The challenges of the outside world can be overwhelming for them to handle.
However, there are many ways to help these children become more curious about the world and increase their interest. By exposing them to different aspects of life in their unique way, they can see themselves and their lives from a different perspective. This can lead to new motivations, inspirations, and a happier, more fulfilling life.
Overcoming the Challenges of the Outside World for Special Needs Children
Introducing these children to new experiences can be a challenging task, as they process and perceive life events differently. However, the rewards in the end make the effort well worth it. It is important to remember that behind any condition a child may be struggling with, there is always a curious, playful, and joyful child waiting to learn and grow.
Example of a Special Needs Child Finding Joy and Fulfillment through Virtual Travel
Our son Stony is an example of this. He was an introverted and anxious boy between the ages of 3 and 10 and had significant behavioral and cognitive issues. He struggled with new places, people, sounds, smells, and more. This made it difficult for us to plan family outings or even small events, as we were often homebound.
But Stony found a way to see the world from the comfort of his own home through the use of a free program called Google Earth. This program allows him to “travel” virtually anywhere he wants on the globe. He was fascinated with exploring new places, from the jungles of South America to the streets of big cities like New York and Beijing. He even made maps and followed the directions to his destinations.
This simple tool has had a huge impact on Stony. He has realized that there is so much more to see and experience in the world beyond his own home. He has become eager to travel and has a list of places he wants to visit.
Encouraging Special Needs Children to Explore the World
I encourage you to show your special needs child the Google Earth program. Not only is it a fun experience, but it can also improve their creativity, imagination, and give them the courage to live a happier life.
And in conclusion, while the pandemic has added new obstacles to special needs families, the importance of getting children out into the world remains significant. Parents must find ways to help their children overcome their difficulties and encourage them to discover their own path in life.
