Parents, There Is A Light At The End Of The Tunnel- Kristi Marie

Over the past year, my kids and most kids around the world have struggled. We struggled in ways that our youth should have never had to struggle. They haven't been able to see their friends face to face, and when they do, they aren't really seeing their friends; they see a mask. Heck, not even sports or group activities have been what they are used to.

As parents, my husband and I sat down for an annual IEP (Individualized Education Program) for our son Logan. If you have a child with an IEP, you also know that these meetings can make you feel like your child isn't at the level they should be, no matter how much work they and you put in. That's a hard pill to swallow, but it's even harder to watch your child struggle.

This year hasn't been the easiest on Logan, but we have managed to teach him skills, that he wouldn't have learned if we weren't in the middle of a pandemic. Yes, he has regressed in ways, but in other ways, he has shown just how resilient he is.

I hope you remember while you're getting ready for your child's annual IEP that you're not alone and there will likely be some amount of regression this year. You are still a great parent, and your child is still a great child and student.

Our struggles and setbacks don't define us. We all need to remember there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and we are starting to see it.

Hey, have you downloaded our FREE app? If not, you totally should. With the app, you can stream us anywhere at any time; you can also send us messages, win exclusive prizes, and you'll even get the latest breaking news sent right to your phone. Want to download the app right now? All you've got to do is enter your mobile number below, and we'll send a download link right to your mobile device. It's that easy!