Inspired By Disabled Kids? What Feels Ok + What Feels Ick

When strangers call our kids “so inspiring,” it’s often meant as a compliment. But it doesn’t always feel like one.In this episode, Madeline and Alyssa dive into the uncomfortable question: Do our children exist to teach or inspire others? They unpack why that idea feels off, evenwhen the intention is good.In this episode, Madeline and Alyssa unpack the tension between learning from your child and making them a life lesson. They break down the roots of “inspiration porn,” whysome praise feels more about the speaker than the child, and how it can reduce complex lives to feel-good stories.They also talk about what true respect looks like, and why your child doesn’t need to teach or inspire anyone to be worthy of love and support.If you’ve ever flinched at a compliment or struggled to explain why some praise feels wrong, this one’s for you.Links:Join The Rare Life newsletter and never miss an update!Fill out our contact form to joinupcoming discussion groups!Follow Alyssa at @alyssanewt!Follow us on Instagram @the_rare_life!Donate to the podcast or Contact me about sponsoring an episode.Follow the Facebook page. Join the Facebook group Parents of Children with Rare Conditions.Access the transcript on the website here.