There is something amazingly unique about parents with special needs kids. The little things don’t get to them. They have faced major life challenges, dealt with their theology of God’s goodness, have a whole different understanding of patience, have already tested and proven unconditional love, and practice self-sacrificial parenting. As church leaders and sunday school teachers we need to stand by them, support them, and become knowledgable in how to minister to their entire family.

When they walk into our classrooms their defenses are up. If there is one thing they have learned (wether in the church, schools, or in doctor’s offices) they are the only voice, the only advocate fighting for their child. As ministry leaders we need to respect and honor their voices. What may appear to us as sensitivity is actually years of standing in the gap, shielding and fighting for their child to be accepted and loved by others.