A Letter of Introduction

Hello, and welcome to Advocacy Services for Kids! Chances are you are a parent, teacher, or other person who loves a child who struggles with behavior challenges. He or she may either have multiple labels or else no clear-cut diagnosis at all, but one thing is clear: the behavior is frustrating everyone. I am the parent of just such a child. My husband and I struggled for a few years alone, trying to work with the schools, camps, and groups my son joined. Our extended family didn't always understand him, we became more withdrawn from friends, and I didn't dare talk to the neighbors about our problems, though I'm pretty sure they could hear the yelling! We felt very isolated and helpless - at the mercy of the schools and a confusing mental health system. We have learned a lot since then.

If you have felt the same way, please know that you are not alone. About 20 percent of kids - that's one out of five - have emotional disorders serious enough to disrupt their school, home, and activities.

Please also know that there is hope. After attending a support group, finding a good psychiatrist, learning about school laws, and learning new parenting skills that are required for this special type of child, our child is doing great! He is a joy to us, and we are happy to be his parents.

Check out our website, see if the links and newsletters are helpful, and remember to keep on supporting that child. I always say, you may not always feel like you are doing the right thing, but your child knows you are doing something, and that often makes all the difference in the world.

Peace,

Sandy