Your Autism Coach Offers Five Helpful Valentine's Day Tips to Parents For a Fulfilling Relationship

NEW YORK - Feb. 4, 2015 - PRLog -- Sustaining a healthy and fulfilling marriage or relationship while raising a child with special needs is no easy task.  Managing all aspects of a child’s daily living – including personal needs, school activities, therapy and medical appointments – can leave little time for oneself, much less a partner.

Deanna Picon, founder of Your Autism Coach, LLC and author of The Autism Parents’ Guide To Reclaiming Your Life, advises parents to apply these simple tips for keeping their relationship strong and making their marriage a priority again.

·         1. Give yourself permission to enjoy.  Parents of special needs children may feel guilty for a having a good time, even if it’s only for a short time.  There is no reason to feel bad for wanting some time with your spouse to resume the activities, events and hobbies you used to do before having kids.  In fact, it’s probably the best thing you can do for your family.  Every couple needs and deserves some time together to re-connect and keep the emotional and communication bonds strong.

·         2. Schedule some couple time.  It can be as simple as scheduling “fun nights” for yourselves on a weekly or monthly basis.  Go bowling or to a movie. Eat out. It doesn’t have to be a 3-course meal at a 5 star restaurant. A quick bite at a local diner is fine.  The important thing is that you’re spending quality time together without trying to cook dinner, tend to your child’s needs, and clean the house at the same time.

·         3. Ask for help when you need it.  There’s no shame in asking a family member or close friend to stay with your child for a few hours so you and your partner can have some quality time and a much-deserved break.  You’ll be pleasantly surprised how much people want to help and support you.  Let them come over to take care of your child in your home. You’ll know your child is safe and well-cared for, and there’s no child care costs.

·         4. Appreciate each other.  Show appreciation for all the wonderful or demanding things you are doing as partners and parents.  Tell each other, “You’re doing a great job” every once in a while.  Thank each other for acts of kindness, such as letting you sleep late some mornings.

·         5. Express Your Love.  Always remember, attention and affection for each other doesn’t have to be reserved for just date nights and special occasions like Valentine’s Day.  A little extra effort on both sides can generate ongoing intimacy.  A kiss goodnight, a gentle touch as you pass in the hall, a love message by e-mail or text.  These little gestures can mean so much.

Your Autism Coach, LLC provides superior coaching services and seminars that address the issues and concerns of parents of special neeeds children.