Interview with Shirley Harding, peacemaker mom of three. Shirley's oldest son has Asperger's which was not diagnosed till his teens.

Send us Fan MailSHOW NOTESIntroduction:Special guest on "Special Needs Mom's Circle of Strength" podcast.Guest introduced as Shirley Harding, the host's sister.Shirley shares her role as a peacemaker in her family.Background and Early Years:Shirley talks about her first child, Louie.Long labor and birth, two weeks overdue.Louie diagnosed with Asperger's at age 15.Shirley discusses challenges and the intuitive feeling of something being different.Family Dynamics:Shirley has two more children, Kane and India.Challenges and joys of raising multiple children, including a special needs child.Challenges of Parenting a Special Needs Child:Need for effective advocacy.Dealing with heartbreak on behalf of the child.Learning from others' experiences, including public figures like Chris Packham.Educational Achievements of Louis:Louie's academic accomplishments, including a master's degree and diploma in archiving.Impact on Family Life:Shirley shares how raising Louie affected family dynamics.Adapting parenting styles for each child's needs.Perspective on Life and Parenthood:Changing expectations and the reality of parenting.Adapting to the challenges and constant changes in parenting.Biggest Challenges as a Special Needs Parent:Advocating for the child.Dealing with emotional challenges and heartbreak.Shaping Perspective on Life and Parenthood:Realizing that children have their own thoughts and ideas.Accepting and adapting to the child's unique journey and personality.Strategies for Emotional Wellbeing:Taking breaks and spending time with family and friends.Reflecting on personal feelings and allowing time for emotions.Maintaining Emotional Wellbeing:Acknowledging the need for personal time.Finding activities and moments for oneself.Words of Encouragement:Special needs parents are superhuman and can handle the challenges.Trust instincts, follow gut feelings, and seek help.Emphasizes the importance of taking personal time and staying positive.Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys KyshchukLearn more about your host here:https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/Here's a community for special needs moms to share, uplift and learn from each other...https://www.facebook.com/groups/specialneedsmomscircleofstrengthLearn more about your host at:https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/