Parent to Parent Support (continued)

For other parents, the match lasts for years and develops into a lifelong friendship. The experienced parents can share a lot of "tips" that make daily living easier. Other things get shared, too, like laughter and worries, stories about the children and the rest of the family, resources that might be helpful, strategies for dealing with issues the families have in common, how to deal with school systems and doctors, and the incredible joy and stress of parenting.

Since the parents share so many common experiences, the Parent to Parent match offers a unique form of support. This support is different from the support that professionals provide. And, because the relationship between the parents is one to one, the support is different from that found in larger parent groups.

Can Parent to Parent Really Help Me?

Yes, it most likely can! While professionals can be very helpful to you and your child, you may feel like many parents do'wishing you could talk to another parent who has had similar experiences! When asked who is best able to support them emotionally, families often say their first choice is other parents who can share their experiences (Boukydis, 1984; Singer et al., 1999; Summers et al., 1990).

There are many benefits to sharing with other parents. A lot of useful information can be exchanged. For example, you might contact Parent to Parent if you want to:

• talk to someone about the impact of disability on your family and friends;

• discuss the stress of dealing with multiple doctors, learning a whole new vocabulary, and dealing with the financial aspects of disability;

• find support and advice about special classes and services, talking to special educators about your child's difficulties, and trying to remain optimistic;

• find playmates and friends for your child who may not play the same way as other children or with the same kind of toys;

• learn about keeping your family happy and healthy while making major changes in your daily life and activities; or

• learn how to have confidence in your own impressions and your own ideas for what your child needs and wants.

These are just some of the reasons that parents get in touch with Parent to Parent. Probably one of the most powerful reasons, though, is that the veteran parent is seen as a "reliable ally"'someone who can provide emotional support and information in especially meaningful ways because of the shared experiences. Many parents find it's very helpful to learn how other families have managed similar situations.

Sometimes having a child with a disability can make you feel very alone and isolated. Parent to Parent can connect you with others who know a lot about your daily issues and joys and challenges, because they have had those issues, joys, and challenges in their own lives. Experienced families will not tell you what to do'they will quite simply be there for you and truly understand what you are going through. Sharing coping techniques and other useful tips can make life run more smoothly. Being able to discuss concerns with others who are in the same situation can bring about realistic, practical solutions. This is often exactly what parents newer to the disability experience need. The purpose of Parent to Parent is to help parents'you'make these vitally important connections.