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Sensory Processing Disorder Inspirational Quotes for Parents
Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful.
Sensory Processing Disorder Inspirational Quotes for Parents
Jeanette Loftus
Parenting is a journey that comes with its own set of challenges. Us parents often find ourselves seeking guidance, support, and inspiration as we navigate through the ups and downs of raising our children.
This is especially true when it comes to parenting a child who has sensory processing disorder. Sensory differences can make everyday activities overwhelming and challenging for both children and their parents too.
There are tons of beautiful quotes online. I post parenting quotes on my Facebook page and other social media daily. I often post inspirational quotes for parents of neurodivergent children because they lift parents when they are having a tough day. They also help parents when they are struggling with different challenges to feel that they are not alone.
In the middle of the struggles and triumphs of parenting a child with sensory processing disorder, it can be helpful to turn to words of wisdom and encouragement from others who have walked a similar path before. Here are some parenting quotes and sayings that speak to the experience of raising a child who has sensory processing disorder.
I thought that I would add these beautiful quotes to my website as a resource for parents. On those tough days, great days or days you seek support, you can always come here to read quotes about parenting children with sensory processing disorder and neurodivergent children.
Parenting a child with sensory processing disorder comes with its own set of challenges and its own set of rewards. These parenting quotes and sayings are a source of inspiration for parents as they navigate the journey of raising a child with sensory processing difficulties. They remind us to stay patient, have understanding, be loving, and to never give up on our children.
1. Just because you have days when you are overwhelmed, doesn't mean that you are a bad parent. It's okay to cry and it's okay to need a break. You are doing amazing.
2. Beneath every behavior is a feeling. And beneath every feeling is a need. And when we meet that need rather than focus on the behavior, we begin to deal with the cause and not the symptom. ~ Ashleigh Warner
3. If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be. ~ Maya Angelou
4. I often spend my time wondering if I am doing this right. At some point I need to just remind myself that I'm doing my best. That is enough. ~ Unknown
5. There is no such thing as a “bad kid” - just angry, hurt, tired, scared, confused, impulsive ones expressing their feelings & needs the only way they know how. We owe it to every single one of them to always remember that. ~ Jessica Stephens
6. Discipline is helping a child solve a problem. Punishment is making a child suffer for having a problem. To raise problem solvers, focus on solutions, not retribution. L.R Knost
7. High five to those who are struggling in a world that is too loud, too bright, overwhelming and still continue to shine each day. You are brave and doing amazing. That takes a lot of strength. ~ Unknown
8. Dear Special Needs Parent, I didn't mean to interrupt your scrolling but I wanted to tell you that you are doing a great job! You are strong. You are brave. You are valuable. You are needed. You are beautiful. You are not alone and never forget that. ~ Unknown
9. Strong willed children become adults who change the world as long as we can hang on for the ride and resist the temptation to take the spirit out of them. ~ Sarah Stogryn
10. Embrace the unique way your child is blooming - even if it's not in the garden you imagined. ~ Jenn Soehnlin
11. Behavior is a form of communication. If I am misbehaving at school, I am trying to tell you something. ~ Unknown
12. The best gift you can give a child with special needs is your friendship. To include them, play with them and believe in them. ~ Unknown
13. Don't compare your child to others. There's no comparison between the sun and the moon. They shine when it's their time. ~ Unknown
14. I am a parent. I am a caregiver. I am a family member. It is my job to see the world through this child's eyes. Explain this child to teachers. Explain this child to our community. It is my privilege to fight for this child's needs. ~ Unknown
15. Thinking of your child as 'behaving badly' disposes you to think of punishment. Thinking of your child as 'struggling to handle something difficult' encourages you to help them through their distress. ~ Unknown
16. Special needs parenting can be really tough. Most could never do what you do each day. Don't be so hard on yourself. Be strong. Be brave. You can do this. You are doing a great job. I see you. ~ Unknown
17. Don’t tell a mom she looks tired; she already knows that. Tell her she’s doing a good job; she might not know that. ~ Unknown
18. The hardest part of being a parent is watching a child go through something really tough and not being able to fix it for them. ~ Unknown
19. If you want to know how to treat a child with special needs, look at their sibling...they will show you. ~ Unknown
20. Being a special needs parent means celebrating strengths, choosing to believe there is sun behind the clouds, and never ever giving up. ~ Unknown
21. Sensory Processing Disorder does exist. It's real. Our kids are not bad kids. Our kids do not lack discipline. We are not making excuses for behaviors. A meltdown is not a tantrum. Sensory Processing Disorder can cause extreme reactions and anxiety. Children with SPD are not spoiled and they do not do it for attention. SPD does not affect everyone the same way. Please be understanding and supportive. ~ Jeanette Baker-Loftus
22. Repeat after me: I am not a bad parent. I am a great parent having a bad day.
23. When parenting a child with special needs, the need for self-care even greater and is twice as challenging as for other parents to get. ~ Unknown
24. We are not special parents because we have special needs children. We are regular people who have become better human beings because of our special needs children. ~ Unknown
25. When little people are overwhelmed by big emotions, it's our job to share our calm, not join their chaos. ~ L.R Knost
26. I am a Sensory Processing Disorder Mom, not all super heroes wear capes. ~ Jeanette Baker-Loftus
27. You can't teach children to behave better by making them feel worse. When children feel better, they behave better. ~ Pam Leo
28. I think the hardest part of having a child with a delay of any kind is the fight. The fight for services, the fight for people to understand who your child is and what they need. The fight for knowledge, because knowledge is power and the quiet fight you have within yourself wondering if you have left no stone unturned. ~ Jessie Doyle
29. Parents need to fill a child’s bucket of self-esteem so high that the rest of the world can’t poke enough holes to drain it dry. ~ Alvin Price
30. As a parent of a child with special needs. I am a therapy cheerleader. Expert researcher. Dedicated advocate. Expert negotiator. And true believer in all things possible. ~ Unknown
31. Mama, You were given these children - you. No one else. You were given these children because you are who they need. You have the soul that loves them even on their hard days. You have the motivation and love to give these children everything they need. You have the heart to wake up every morning and do it all over again, even when you are exhausted. You have the smile that they crave and the touch to make everything ok. You are their sunshine and their comfort. You are theirs and they are yours mama. On the days you are questioning yourself, remember: You've got this. ~ Unknown
32. It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are. ~ E.E Cummings
33. I will speak for you, I will fight for you, I will advocate for you, So that one day, You can do it for yourself. ~ Unknown
34. Sometimes when you see the parent of a special needs child cry, its better not to ask why? Sometimes it only takes three words to ease their pain. Those three words are … I AM HERE. ~Unknown
35. Sometimes as the parent of a special needs child, I often feel desperate for a miracle ... then I look into the eyes of my child and realize I already created one. ~Unknown
36. I don’t think the worst thing that could happen to me is raising a child with special needs. I think the worst thing is to raise a child who is cruel to those with special needs. ~ unknown
37. Do not let a broken system convince you that you have a broken child. ~ Unknown
38. Surround yourself with people who get it. Surround yourself with people who will be supportive and understanding. Surround yourself with people who won't judge you or your child. Surround yourself with people who will love you and your child unconditionally. Find your tribe. A tribe that will be there for you and your child on your journey. You and your child deserve this and nothing less. ~ Unknown
39. Children with special needs come into our lives, leaving footprints on our hearts and we are never the same. ~ Unknown
40. Parents of newly diagnosed kids. It's going to be okay. Your child is still your child. Your love for them won't ever change. There will be days that are hard. Heartbreaking even. It's okay to not be okay. Just don't get stuck there. Your child needs you to be strong. When you think you have it hard, remember it is harder for your child. Find your tribe. Find those who support you and understand this path that you are walking. Channel your emotions towards the fight. The fight for services, quality education, and quality of life. Never give up. ALWAYS have hope. Your child is going to teach you SO MUCH! ~ Unknown
41. Remember: everyone in the classroom has a story that leads to misbehavior or defiance. 9 times out of 10, the story behind the misbehavior won’t make you angry. It will break your heart. ~Annette Breaux
42. A child with disabilities often spends hours being taught how to interact with others... but why don't we spend time teaching those without disabilities how to interact with them? ~ Calleen Petersen
43. Instead of teaching children to get 'there,' why not let them be here? Where is 'there' anyway? The world needs more 'here' than 'there'. ~ Vince Gowmon
44. Having children with special needs can be challenging. Getting people to understand can be the hardest part. ~ Unknown
45. Someone with Sensory Processing Disorder makes me proud every single day.
46. I think having a child with disabilities teaches you a level of love, patience, protection, compassion and understanding you didn't even know existed. ~ Unknown
47. It is so important to love someone a little extra on their bad days.
48. A child with special needs is not choosing to be difficult or misbehaving on purpose. They just react to things differently. Be patient and kind always. ~ Unknown
49. When your child is having a meltdown... don't talk. Don't try to reason. Don't get angry. Your child can't hear you. Just be silent and loving until the storm passes. Words can come later. ~ Unknown
50. They said he wouldn't, but he did. They said he couldn't, but he can. They said he won't, but he will. ~ Unknown
51. Cherish the children marching to the beat of their own music. They play the most beautiful heart songs. ~ Fiona Goldsworthy
52. Motherhood is about raising and celebrating the child you have, not the child you thought you would have. It's about understanding that he is exactly the person he is supposed to be. And that, if you're lucky, he just might be the teacher who turns you into the person you are supposed to be. ~ Joan Ryan
53. Uncertainty is stressful. But you don't need all the answers. Just breathe deeply & take small steps. ~ Karen Salmansohn
54. I hope you know you're capable, brave and significant. Even when it feels like you're not. ~ Unknown
55. There are really places in your heart that you don't know exist until you love a child. ~ Anne Lamott
56. There are no bad children. There are bad choices. There are bad moments. There are bad days. There are bad situations. But there are no bad children. Period. L.R Knost
57. Judging a child who has special needs does not define who they are... it defines who you are. ~ Unknown
58. When you are frustrated with me because of the things I cannot do … Just imagine how frustrated I must be because I am not able. ~ Unknown
59. Dear parents who have children with special needs, It's okay to admit that the rain falls a little harder on some days. Take a deep breath and remember, the love you carry, will see you through. ~ Unknown
60. Crying and feeling sad when you have a child who has special needs does not mean that you are weak. It means that you're a parent who is in search of getting your child all that he/she needs and at times feels frustrated, overwhelmed and isolated. ~ Unknown
61. My child is my everything, so I will give anything and stop at nothing. That is all. ~ Unknown
62. Remember, popcorn is prepared in the same pot, in the same heat, in the same oil, but the kernels don't pop at the same time. Don't compare your child to other children, their turn to pop is coming. ~ Unknown
63. The kids who need the most love will ask for it in the most unloving ways. ~ Russell Barkley
64. Your special needs journey won't be the same as anyone else's, so don't let anyone in the world tell you what it should look like. ~ Unknown
65. What makes you DIFFERENT is what makes you BEAUTIFUL. ~ Unknown
66. It shouldn’t matter how slowly a child learns. What matters is that we encourage them to never stop trying. ~ Robert John Meehan
67. Don't let others who don't understand your child's struggles, make you doubt your parenting. ~ Unknown
68. A child is like a butterfly in the wind. Some can fly higher than others, but each one flies the best it can. Why compare one against the other? Each one is different, each one is special, each one is beautiful. ~ Unknown
69. My child isn't giving me a hard time, they are having a hard time. ~ Unknown
70. Encourage me. Support me. Never underestimate my mind. I will meet milestones in my own way and in my own. ~ Unknown time.
71. When you find yourself locked in the bathroom, sobbing on the floor because you've just had enough, that does not mean you have failed as a mother. Being a mother is hard. That is not failure. That is fact. Remind yourself of that. ~ Unknown
72. Meet your child where they are at, not where the world expects them to be. ~ Unknown
73. You can't punish a child who is acting out because of sensory overload. ~ Temple Grandin
74. Anger and aggressive behavior can be a mask for anxiety. When children are overwhelmed by internal feelings they don't know how to process, it turns into outbursts & meltdowns. ~ Sarah Boyd
75. When you judge someone based on a diagnosis, you miss out on their abilities, beauty, and uniqueness. ~ Unknown
76. Behind every challenging behavior is a child with a beautiful soul, just needing someone to listen, to believe in and love them. ~ Kerry Aryal
77. As a parent, you always worry about your child but there are so many other worries when you have a child who has Sensory Processing Disorder. ~ Jeanette Baker- Loftus
78. You do not have to make your children into wonderful people. You just have to remind them that they are wonderful people. If you do this consistently from the day they are born, they will believe it easily. ~ William Martin
79. Before I became a parent, I swore my kids would never have a tantrum in public. Let's all take a minute to laugh about this together. ~ Unknown
80. When your child who has Sensory Processing Disorder dislikes loud noises, but is the loudest person you know. ~ Jeanette Baker- Loftus
81. Respond to your children with love in their worst moments their broken moments their angry moments their selfish moments their lonely moments their frustrated moments their inconvenient moments because it is in their most unlovable human moments that they most need to feel loved. ~ L.R. Knost
82. Believe in yourself as a parent. You are your child’s best therapist and advocate. ~ Unknown
83. Being a parent is not about what you gave up to have a child with special needs, but what you gained from having one. ~ Unknown
84. It's Sensory Processing Disorder … not bad parenting. ~ Unknown
85. It take unimaginable strength to continually endure, persist & overcome. People with disabilities aren't weak. They're the strongest human beings you'll ever meet. ~ Unknown
86. Cherish the children marching to the beat of their own music. They play the most beautiful heart song. ~ Fiona Goldsworthy
87. In my world there are no bad bad kids, just impressionable conflicted young people, wrestling with emotions and impulses, trying to communicate their feelings and needs the only way they know how. ~ Janet Landsbury
88. Hey, Beautiful One. You knew today would be a little tricky. Hang tight, Love. You're walking in the right direction. Just keep walking. ~ Unknown
89. Parents are often quick to judge whether or not behavior warrants a punishment, but when we pause to listen to what the behavior is saying about our child’s feelings and experience, a whole new world opens up to us and our children. ~ Rebecca Eanes
90. Dear special needs parent, Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come. Remember everything that you have faced, all the battles you have won, and all the fears you have overcome. ~ Unknown
91. When a child can’t calm down they need connection and comfort, not criticism and control. ~ Jane Evans
92. Children with Autism and Sensory Processing Disorder are like a snowman. Creative, beautiful, fun and they meltdown. Please be understanding.
93. Yelling silences your message. Speak quietly so your children can hear your words instead of just your voice. ~ L.R Knost
94. Everyone needs encouragement at times. If you are a parent of a child with special needs, I see you. I know how difficult things can be. ~ Unknown
95. Autism is a journey that I never planned but I sure do love my tour guide. ~ Unknown
96. Don't expect everyone to understand your journey, especially if they've never had to walk your path. ~ Unknown
97. I hope you find time and space to rest and recharge, I hope you know you're deserving of it. And in a world which tells us that being busy and "productive" is the goal, I hope you know rest is not indulgent. It is a necessity. ~ Unknown
98. Being a special needs parent ... you have good days, bad days and those days where you just try and get by without falling apart. ~ Unknown
99. There comes a moment when you realize that what you are advocating for is more than just accommodations. You're really advocating for someone's quality of life. That's the moment you realize that you won't give up. ~ Unknown
100. When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower. ~ Alexander Den Heijer
101. Special needs parents are tired ... Special needs parents are stressed ... Special needs parents are trying ... But ... special needs parents won't give up. ~ Unknown
102. Parents who feel guilty about not doing enough are usually the ones doing everything possible. ~ Unknown
103. Parenting is the easiest thing to have an opinion on, but the hardest thing in the world to do. ~ Matt Walsh
104. Children don't know how to ask for what they don't know they need. Their asking comes in the form of behavior. ~ Bonnie Harris
105. "You look tired" I have a child with Sensory Processing Disorder, I am pretty sure this is my face is now. ~ Jeanette Baker Loftus
106. Nobody hides pain better than a mother who’s trying to remain strong for her kids. ~ Unknown
107. I have a child with special needs. I didn't know if I would be strong enough. Turns out I am. And so are you. ~ Lisa Thornbury
108. SPECIAL NEEDS PARENT SLEEP: It's like regular sleep but without the sleep.
109. Teach your children that strength doesn't come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn't. ~ Rikki Rogers
110. Give yourself the same care and attention that you give others and watch yourself bloom ~ Unknown
111. When I feel grief wash over me, when I am tired of fighting, when I feel isolated or exhausted, I can almost hear another special need mom telling me "you got this" ~ Silvia Corradin'
112. Your child is capable of things no one can predict. ~ Natan Gendelman
113. The disability is not the problem. The accessibility is the problem. ~ Mohamed Jemni
114. Meet your child where they are, not where the world expects them to be. ~ Unknown
115. Shift your parenting views. Your child is not stubborn, he is determined. Your child is not defiant, she is learning to express her opinions. You child is not bossy, he is honing in on his leadership skills through trial and error. Your child is not selfish, she expresses her ownership and responsibility. Celebrate their strengths. Look at your kids differently and you will nurture them differently. ~ Umm Anissa
116. Take one day at a Time. Sometimes it’s one hour at a time.
117. It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences. ~Audre Lorde
118. It feels hard because it is hard. Please go a little easier on yourself. ~ Unknown
119. Just in case you need this today: You are loved. You are doing a great job. You are a fantastic parent. You are not a failure. You are needed. You are wanted. I believe in you. You can do it!
120. When you are feeling lost... remember who you are doing it for. ~ Unknown
121. Each Child is Unique, Not Only Capable of Learning But Also Capable of Succeeding. ~ Robert John Meehan
122. Parenting a special-needs child is hard work. It is physically exhausting, mentally and emotionally draining, time-consuming, and often times, very, very lonely. ~ Patrick Baldwin
123. The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen. ~ Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
124. 1 in 20 children have a disability. That gives 19 kids a daily opportunity to learn about diversity, collaboration, inclusion and friendship. ~ Unknown
125. On particularly rough days when I'm sure I can't possibly endure more, I remind myself that my track record for getting through bad days has been 100%. And that’s pretty good. ~ Unknown
126. The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice. ~ Peggy O'Mara
127. Be the encourager. The world has plenty of critics already. ~ Dave Willis
128. It’s not only children who grow. Parents do, too. As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching us to see what we do with ours. I can’t tell my children to reach for the sun. All I can do is reach for it myself. ~ Joyce Maynard
129. When parenting a child who has Sensory Processing Disorder, you are not always going to have the answers. You are not always going to get it right the first time. There will be many times when nothing is working and that's not because of your parenting skills. It's because parenting a child with Sensory Processing Disorder can be very challenging. It is not easy. Your child has additional needs. Their needs are different than other children. We are all learning as we go. Go a little easier on yourself. You are doing a great job!~ Jeanette Loftus
130. Parenting is a constant battle between going to bed to catch up on sleep or staying awake to finally get some alone time. ~ Unknown
131. We shouldn't discipline children who are not behaving due to Sensory Processing Disorder. We should guide them through the behavior without shaming them. Children shouldn't be punished for something beyond their control. Recognize the sense that they are needing to stimulate. Redirect them to a sensory activity that simulates their senses in a similar way.
132. No matter how stressed you are, remember how blessed you are. ~ Unknown
133. Sometimes the people around you won't understand your journey. They don't need to, it's not for them. ~ Joubert Botha
134. You are strong for getting out of bed in the morning when it feels like hell. You are brave for doing things even though they scare you or make you anxious. And you are amazing for trying and holding on no matter how hard life gets. ~ Unknown
135. Every day is a new beginning, take a deep breath, smile and start again. ~ Unknown
136. Life is tough, my darling, but so are you. ~ Stephanie Bennett Henry
137. Sometimes, it's our own love that we need the most, and first. Make yourself a priority. ~ Unknown
138. Before you judge me as a special needs parent... Please know that I am already my biggest critic. ~ Unknown
139. Don't compare your child to others. There's no comparison between the sun and the moon. They shine when it's their time. ~ Unknown
140. They say it takes a village to raise a child. Where can I get directions to this freaking village? ~ Unknown
141. Talk through your frustration and your child will learn to talk through theirs. ~ Unknown
142. There isn't a single person on this planet who is entitled to treat you badly. Remember that. ~ Unknown
143. Soon, when all is well, you're going to look back on this period of your life and be so glad that you never gave up. ~ Brittany Burgurder
144. When you're in a dark place, you sometimes tend to think you've been buried. Perhaps you've been planted. Bloom!. ~ Peenhaz Hussain
145. You are more than the mistakes you've made. You are the wisdom, love, strength and compassion you’ve gained from all you’ve been through. ~ Karen Salmansohn
146. A little person who has special needs has taught me to be braver & stronger than I ever thought I could be. I've learned coping skills I never knew I had I have learned to fight like a prize fighter under stress but most importantly, I have fallen in love with a little person who has made me a better person. ~ Susan Zajicek
147. Anxiety happens when you think you have to figure everything out at once. Breathe. You are strong. You got this. Take it day by day. ~ Unknown
148. I think you are all doing a very beautiful job figuring out some heavy shit. ~ Unknown
149. Sensory Processing Disorder is NOT your fault or anyone's fault.
Sensory Processing Disorder is NOT bad parenting. Sensory Processing Disorder is NOT lack of discipline. Sensory Processing Disorder is NOT something they can just "get over!" Sensory Processing Disorder is NOT something you outgrow. Sensory Processing Disorder is NOT an excuse. Sensory Processing Disorder is NOT easy.
Sensory Processing Disorder is misunderstood.
Sensory Processing Disorder is a disorder that affects a persons senses. Sensory Processing Disorder is challenging for everyone involved. Sensory Processing Disorder is very real. ~ Jeanette Baker Loftus
150. They say it takes a village to raise a child. I think it takes a child with autism or other special needs to raise the consciousness of a village. ~ Elaine Hall
151. It's okay to be sensitive, that's what happens when you have magic in your heart. ~ Unknown
152. There is tired and there's Sensory Processing Disorder parent tired … ~ Jeanette Baker-Loftus
153. Do what you feel in your heart to be right- for you'll be criticized anyway. You'll be damned if you do, and damned if you don't. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
154. Whatever life throws at you, even if it hurts you, just be strong and fight through it. Remember, strong walls shake but never collapse. ~ Unknown
155. The struggle you're in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow. Don't give up! ~ Robert Tew
156. You were someone before you were their Mom and that person matters. ~ Unknown
157. Don't be sad because you are not there yet. Be happy because you are getting closer every day. ~ Unknown
158. You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice. ~ Bob Marley
159. Parenting has nothing to do with perfection. Perfection isn’t even the goal, not for us, not for our children. Learning together to live well in an imperfect world, loving each other despite or even because of our imperfections, and growing as humans while we grow our little humans, those are the goals of gentle parenting. So don’t ask yourself at the end of the day if you did everything right. Ask yourself what you learned and how well you loved, then grow from your answer. That is perfect parenting. ~ L.R Knost
160. Mama, You are NOT defined by How your child sleeps, Your child's behaviour, What your child eats, Your child's reactions, or Your child's development. ~ Unknown
161. Tell your story. Shout it. Write it. Whisper it if you have to. But tell it. Some won't understand it. Some will outright reject it. But many will thank you for it. And then the most magical thing will happen. One by one … your tribe will gather. And you will never feel alone again. ~ L.R Knost
162. Forgive yourself for not knowing what you didn't know before you learned it. ~ Maya Angelou
163. As a mama, I'm only ever going to be in 1 of 3 places. In front of my kids cheering them on, behind them to have their back, or beside them so they never have to walk alone. ~ Unknown
164. Some of the most important things you can communicate to a child are that feelings are okay, mistakes are fixable and there’s nothing they could do that would push you away or make you love them less. Behavior is not perfect; it is communication. Embrace the imperfect and show children they are worth holding close to you heart. No matter what. -Kelly Bartlett
165. Just because you carry it all so well doesn't mean it's not heavy. ~ Unknown
166. People with special needs are not as different from you and me as you might think. They want the same things we want: to love and be loved, and to be accepted, appreciated, and included. ~ Sylvia Phillips
167. When you see a child crying uncontrollably on the floor of a supermarket or anywhere, before you blame the child's parents, before you judge the child, stop. You may be seeing Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. That child may be anxious or overwhelmed from seeing, hearing or smelling something new. Stop judging. Stop blaming. Try to understand and move on. Always choose kindness and acceptance. ~ Unknown
168. Every child is a different kind of flower. All together they make this world a beautiful garden. ~ Unknown
169. You are now in a secret world. You’ll see things you never imagined: ignorance, rudeness, and discrimination. But you’ll also witness so many everyday miracles, and you’ll know it. You won’t think a milestone is just a milestone, you’ll know it’s a miracle. You’ll treasure things most wouldn’t think twice about. You’ll become an advocate, an educator, a specialist, and a therapist, but most of all, you’ll be a parent to the most wonderful child. ~ Geraldine Renton
170. Listen to the experts. Glean what works for you and your child, but remember, ultimately, you are the expert on your own child. No one else. ~ Sylvia Phillips
171. Children do not overreact. They react within their means of coping. So if they are having a big reaction disproportionate to the problem, they are beyond their means of coping, probably because of many factors we can't see and don't know. ~ The Mindful Psychologist
172. The truth is, there is no such thing as "normal", there are just a series of spectrums on which we all fall and how "normal" we are is largely determined by how well our strengths and weaknesses match the social norms of the times we live in. ~ R. Royce
173. Don’t let anyone who hasn't been in your shoes, tell you how to tie your laces. ~ Unknown
174. Most could never understand the isolation, fears and stress that a parent experiences who has a child with Sensory Processing Disorder.
175. I don't remember who I was before you, my child.
You have changed every part of me. My eyes look at the world differently than I did before, I have more compassion than I ever knew I possessed. The capacity of my heart has expanded ten fold because of you.
Thank you for your gifts. Please be patient with me while I learn how to do this. ~ Unknown
176. In your most challenging parenting moments, take a deep breath and try to remember that the moment your child is at their most challenging is the moment your child is struggling with the most challenges. ~ L.R Knost
178. My child has Sensory Processing Disorder. They eat a limited amount of foods. They will not eat what everyone else is eating. Please don't tell me that they will eat it eventually because they won't. Don't judge my parenting based on what my child will eat.
It can be challenging for children who have Sensory Processing Disorder to try new foods. ~ Jeanette Loftus
179. My child has Sensory Processing Disorder.
I am a very proud parent.
I will always advocate for my child.
I will always love my child.
I will always support my child.
I will always be there for my child.
My child will never walk through this alone.
~ Jeanette Loftus
180. There is so much judgement towards parents who have children with Sensory Processing Disorder.
There are always going to be people who say things to them because they don't understand but believe me, that parent is always criticizing themselves every day when they shouldn't be.
They don't need your judgement. They need support, love, understanding and compassion.
Just because you don't understand or can't see it, that doesn't mean that you should judge someone else. ~ Jeanette Loftus
181. From the outside looking in, it's hard to understand.
From the inside looking out, it's hard to explain. ~ Unknown
182. Children with Sensory Processing Disorder tend to not behave and have meltdowns when they are with their parents because their parents are their safe place. A place where they feel more comfortable. A place where they can be themselves.
If you feel like your child is behaving for others and not you, don't think it's you. It is a compliment. It means they feel safe to come to you with anything.
When your child has a great day with someone else but comes back with you and that's when you notice their behaviors and meltdowns, it's because they love you. They hold it all inside until they are safe with you to be themselves.
You are their safe place. It is not your parenting. ~ Jeanette Loftus
183. Some people may not understand your child's journey. Some may judge you along the way. Some will criticize you and others will not believe you.
This isn't their journey to understand. They judge you because they don't understand Sensory Processing Disorder.
It doesn't matter that they don't believe you. What matters is that you believe your child and will love them through their journey. ~ Jeanette Loftus
184. Children with Sensory Processing Disorder may have difficulty making friends. They just want to be included.
185. Successful mothers are not the ones who have never struggled. They are the ones who never give up, despite the struggles.
186. Sensory Processing Disorder symptoms can change.
A child's reaction can change from one day to the next. They can change throughout the day too.
The overwhelming symptoms they felt last week may not affect them this week. How they react can be different depending on their environment and situation.
A child's sensory experiences may fluctuate daily. They may avoid sensory experiences today that they will seek out tomorrow. ~ Jeanette Loftus
187. You will never speak to anyone more than you speak to yourself in your head, be kind to yourself. ~ Unknown
188. Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be. ~ Rita Pierson
189. Children who have Sensory Processing Disorder should have sensory breaks throughout the day to keep them regulated.
They need a sensory diet regularly, even when they are not displaying the need for it.
We should not wait until they are already dysregulated to accommodate their sensory needs. ~ Jeanette Loftus
190. My child has Sensory Processing Disorder. Smells can be too strong, sounds become too loud, lights become too bright and everything can feel very overwhelming for them. ~ Jeanette Loftus
191. Helping my child through a sensory meltdown is not giving them what they want or giving into them.
I'm giving my child what they need in that moment, they need me to help them through it.
Sensory meltdowns are not the same as tantrums. ~ Jeanette Loftus
192. When parenting a child who has Sensory Processing Disorder, you are not always going to have the answers. You are not always going to get it right the first time. There will be many times when nothing is working and that's not because of your parenting skills. It's because parenting a child with Sensory Processing Disorder can be very challenging. It is not easy. Your child has additional needs. Their needs are different than other children. We are all learning as we go. Go a little easier on yourself. You are doing a great job! ~ Jeanette Loftus
193. Like all parents, those who have children with Sensory Processing Disorder have bad days, overwhelming days and they even cry at times.
It's not all bad days though; they have really great days and the most amazing moments too! Occasionally they have days full of sadness but those days are still filled with love, hope and happiness.
On the tough days, hold on to that love, that happiness and that hope because things will get better. You are not alone. ~ Jeanette Loftus
194. Remember, no matter the problem, kindness is always the right response. When your child is having a problem, stop, listen, then respond to the behavior. The behavior can be addressed later, after the need has been met, because only then is the door to effective communication truly open. ~ LR Knost
195. To the parents who have children with Sensory Processing Disorder, I ask that you simply, keep going.
I know you're tired but keep going.
I know you've tried many things that aren't working but keep going.
I know you're worried but keep going.
I know you're scared for the future but keep going.
I know you question and doubt yourself but keep going.
There is no one in this world who is best for this job to parent your child other than you.
You don't need to be perfect. You don't need to have all the answers. Just keep going. ~ Jeanette Loftus
196. Having children with Sensory Processing Disorder can be challenging. Getting people to understand can be the hardest part.
197. "Your child doesn't look like they have Sensory Processing Disorder"
Sensory Processing Disorder doesn't have a look.
The only "look" that children with Sensory Processing Disorder have is that they are all beautiful. ~ Jeanette Loftus
198. Being more strict won't make Sensory Processing Disorder go away.
Spanking won't make Sensory Processing Disorder go away.
Talking down to a child won't make Sensory Processing Disorder go away.
Punishing or disciplining won't make Sensory Processing Disorder go away.
Insults and criticizing won't make Sensory Processing Disorder go away.
Pushing them to be tougher won't make Sensory Processing Disorder go away.
~ Jeanette Loftus
199. "If they were my child I would ... "
BUT ... they are not your child.
Please respect how I am raising my child who has Sensory Processing Disorder. ~ Jeanette Loftus
200. "There’s nothing wrong with your child" or "what's wrong with your child?"
No, there isn't anything wrong with my child. They have Sensory Processing Disorder. That doesn't mean that there is anything wrong with my child.
Please stop saying this to parents. It's extremely offensive. ~ Jeanette Loftus
201. A mother cannot support her family well, and be expected to take care of others well, if she is not first taking care of her own mental and emotional health. ~ Sarah Grace Norris
202. Taking care of you and your mental health is not selfish. A healthy parent is a great gift to a child. ~ Unknown
203. Getting angry and yelling at or hitting a child for being angry, yelling or hitting is like throwing mud at a muddy child and expecting it to get them clean. Showing adult self-control and responding with compassionate guidance is like a gentle shower of wisdom bathed in love. Parent, don't punish. ~ LR Knost
204. Remember, you have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn't worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens. ~ Louise L Hay
205. Nobody hides pain better than a mother who’s trying to remain strong for her kids. ~ Unknown (Dad's too)
206. There is a story behind every mother. There's a reason she is the way she is and parents the way she does. Think about that. Respect her for what she's overcome and applaud her for doing her best, just like the rest of us. ~ Unknown
207. I think it's really important to destigmatize mental illness in any form. I think there's a lot of people that are carrying around guilt and shame and baggage for shit that doesn't matter.
Everybody is going through something, everybody has had something that they've had to overcome. ~ Unknown
208. Parents ... Give yourself permission to slow down. ~ Unknown
209. Mother's cannot give from a depleted source. Every mother needs emotional, mental, physical and spiritual validation, nourishment and support. When a mother is respected and well cared for, she, and her whole family, will benefit. ~ Unknown
210. To the parent who is feeling like a failure because you didn't live up to the expectations today, cut yourself some slack. Once in a while, skip the bath and just have fun. ~ Unknown
211. A Mother who radiates self-love and self-acceptance actually vaccinates her daughter against low self-esteem. ~ Naomi Wolf
212. An empty tank will take you nowhere. Take time to refuel. ~ Unknown
213. One day your child will make a mistake or a bad choice and run to you instead of from you. In that moment, you will know the immense value of picking and choosing your battles with a teen. ~ LR Knost
214. You are literally doing your best.
If no one is proud of you, be proud of yourself.
P.S. I am proud of you.
215. Not everyone who has Sensory Processing Disorder will have the same symptoms.
Everyone will experience Sensory Processing Disorder differently.
What someone experiences today, could change tomorrow too.
Sensory needs are always changing. ~ Jeanette Loftus
216. To all the parents who are feeling lonely, stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, and continue to pull through each day for the sake of your children ... never doubt that you are good enough. You are amazing. ~ Unknown
217. You'll never understand the needs, fears, and isolation of a parent who has a child with Sensory Processing Disorder until you are one.
218. What we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human. ~ Brene Brown
219. Sometimes real superheroes live in the hearts of small children fighting big battles. ~ Unknown
220. Having a child who has Sensory Processing Disorder doesn't mean that you have failed as a parent. You didn't cause your child to have this. This is not your fault or anyone's fault.
Sensory Processing Disorder can be very challenging for everyone involved.
You are doing a great job! ~ Jeanette Loftus
221. Don't waste your time trying to explain your parenting or your child's needs to people who are not willing to understand. You are doing a great job! ~ Unknown
222. It costs nothing to be kind, patient and compassionate towards children who have Sensory Processing Disorder. It is absolutely free. ~ Unknown
223. Note to self
When things feel overwhelming, remember:
One thought at a time
One task at a time
One day at a time ~ Unknown
224. You will always know more about your child than the experts. Sometimes, what you know may confound and confuse them. That doesn't make you wrong. ~ Carol Ann Swett
225. Say yes to the feelings, even as you say no to the behavior. ~ Daniel J Siegel
226. Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you. ~ Robert Fulghum
227. Remember: everyone in the classroom has a story that leads to misbehavior or defiance. 9 times out of 10, the story behind the misbehavior won’t make you angry. It will break your heart. ~Annette Breaux
DISCLAIMER: I have learned a lot over the years but I am still learning. Always do your own research and exercise sound judgment. I am not an occupational therapist or a physician. I am an adult who has sensory processing disorder, a sensory parent and a Grandma. The information on this website is not medical advice and does not replace the information that your child's therapists or medical professionals give you. These are just ideas that I have learned myself over the years of being a parent and an adult living with SPD. If you are concerned for your child, please always seek medical attention through a family doctor, pediatrician or therapist. This website is for awareness purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different sensory needs. Please always consult with a medical professional. Click on links throughout each page for more resources and information. Click here for more resources https://sensoryprocessingdisorderparentsupport.com/sensoryprocessingdisorderresources
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