5 Comments

So as a mother of a child with special needs, I find outings difficult with my child. Whether it be out at the supermarket, shops or even school pick ups. However we manage to get through these as time spent at each location is usually quite short.

However, I find dining out a problem.

Firstly my child cannot sit in standard chairs or high chairs provided at restaurants, we use a specialised chair/stroller … we have dined with our child in the past, usually at earlier times than the standard lunch or dinner rush, and in places with little diners … however there are times that we would (or need to dine when it’s peak time and busy in a restaurant), so far it’s been manageable , but as my child is growing, they;re not a fan of sitting for long periods … alot of attention and entertainment is needed to keep my child occupied (and quiet lol). I am starting to get “nervous” about dining out and have been avoiding where possible not dining with my child (I have 2) and i do feel guilty if we take one and not the other …

But I think it’s fair for me as a parent, to be able to take my kids anywhere I want … however I am mindful of peoples reactions and thoughts/feelings if there is a loud disruptive child in the same venue as them whilst they are enjoying a simple dinner …

So, I am left still frustrated as to what I should do …. plus, I’ll be honest, as a mother of a child with special needs, i feel uncomfortable when people Look or give me the STARE … so if you are someone that would normally do this, please think twice … it really is not easy for me and it’s a stage I am getting through, learning to accept and adjust to … as this is not short term for me … it’s now my life and I hope over time/ years, people will learn to not judge so quickly and accept that it’s not always easy for some of us.

---

Posted by dreamer1495, 20th April 2013