When DYS disorders are mentioned, it’s usual to focus on the children affected by these difficulties – whatever their nature (dyslexia, dysgraphia, ASD, ADHD…). Yet parents also play an essential role in managing them and also deserve professionals’ attention. They can follow the dys-positif training programme and receive personalised coaching, to support their children and find a certain peace of mind within the family.

Being a parent of children with DYS disorders

Dyslexia, dysorthographia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, etc. – DYS disorders put fundamental learning at risk for the children affected. Although scientists agree on a neurodevelopmental cause, these disorders give rise to many uncomfortable feelings among parents.

Some have to come to terms with their disappointment at not having a “perfect” child, or simply one who “fits” society’s standards. Understandably, this mindset frequently gives rise to guilt, all the more so if one of the two parents has a disorder themselves. Others struggle with a feeling of incompetence: faced with their child’s difficulties, they feel they have failed in their parenting role. Feeling powerless to help them, they nurture strong worries about their child’s future…

While a diagnosis of DYS disorders in their child can be a source of relief, it doesn’t solve everything… Generally poorly heard and poorly supported, parents then begin a journey full of obstacles to overcome (a real uphill battle) tinged with loneliness…

Supporting parents to give them fresh momentum

The role of a coach working with parents of children with DYS disorders is, first and foremost, to listen to them, letting them free themselves from their emotional rollercoaster. Day to day, they often go through a wide range of emotions, from outbursts to exhaustion, with a few satisfactions and successes along the way. Faced with this situation, coaching sessions can help them manage their emotions and find a certain daily harmony.

Professionals can also give them concrete tools and methods to help their child (managing the morning routine, homework, etc.) and to gradually regain confidence in themselves (letting go of guilt, learning to let go…).

“The key to a certain peace of mind lies in an acceptance that doesn’t mean giving up. Parents who manage to let go of the idea of an elite academic career for their child, and who accept that life isn’t just about school performance, give them a chance to thrive and gain peace of mind themselves. If they also manage to look at their child with a genuinely confident gaze – you have difficulties, that’s certain, but we’re sure you’ll build a good life for yourself – their child will be wonderfully well-equipped!” encourages Jean Chambry, child psychiatrist.[1]

 

Parents of children with DYS disorders, the coaches on the Ora-Visio platform can help you along this path of acceptance and help you find the peace of mind you need to bring joy back into your home. They fully understand the challenges of these disorders and can offer you real support.

[1] Source: https://www.cairn.info/revue-l-ecole-des-parents-2017-3-page-32.htm