5 Love Languages of a Special-Needs Family

In honor of the national day of Love, also known as - Valentine's day. I want to explore the possible ways to show love to special-needs families through different love languages.

As a disclaimer, no two special-needs families are the same, similar but unique and individual in their own way.


1. Acts of Service:

For parents - I'll do the dishes for you. I'll take care of the kids so you can have some time to yourself.

For children -  I will be present in the moment when I play with you. I will take you out to explore in nature. I will have lunch with you at school. I will advocate and support you at school, medical, and in public, and personal matters.

For families - I will cook your family a home-cooked meal. I will clean your home for your family once or twice a month.

2. Quality Time:

For parents - Want to go on a date night this Friday? Do you want to netflix and chill tonight? Do you want to sit next to me while doing something adult (reading, paying bills, on the phone, etc.). Friends and family invite parents to brunch, dinner, night out to let loose and have an evening off and to enjoy your company.

For children - Can I read this story with you? Would you like to spend X amount of time reading a book or playing a game? I will put my phone down and listen to what you have to say.

For families - Would y'all like to go (someplace fun) together? Let's have a family game night. Let's volunteer together. Let's have dinner together and chat.

3. Words of Affirmation:

For parents - I love how you take care of the kids while I work. I love that you keep it fresh! I love you for being you.

For children - I'm so proud of you. I see that you are doing your best and I love that about you. I love you and will always be here for you.

For families - You guys are doing great parenting and you are blessed with beautiful amazing children. Your family gives me hope and inspiration. God is using your family as a light for other families.

4. Gifts:

For parents - Time! In the form of giving them a respite (break), offer to babysit. Money and gift cards.

For children - Ask children what they like and surprise them one day with it. Sensory toys, books, arts-n-crafts, pretend toys, clothes, shoes, anything they are interested in.

For families - Tickets for experiences (movies, night out, travel, dinner). Ask the specific family what they would like most for their family and gift that to them when you like.

5. Physical Touch:

For parents - Exercise and dance together. Massages either at home or professional couples massage.

For children - Dance parties, high fives, hugs. Some children have sensory needs and can benefit from a sensory diet (seek Occupational therapist guidance), some examples of such are brushing, compressions, wall pushes, pulling objects.

For families - Exercise together! Dance together. Hug one another.


These are just examples of ways to express love to special-needs families in different love language ways. Of course, ask them first what they prefer and go from there.

One thing that can be helpful to us all is more love. We all really can't go wrong with showing love to others. When one does not know what to do or say to a special-needs family, choose love, and show them love.


XO,


Minerva

1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV)

"And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."