We have a new Featured Parent to introduce you to!

 

Fun and Function: Who are you and your kids?

Dianna Patton: I'm Dianna Patton and my daughter is Grayson who is 34 months.

 

FF: What is the nature of their special needs?

DP: Speech Apraxia and Sensory Processing Disorder.

 

FF: What would you say is your biggest challenge in raising a child with special needs?

DP: First, other people. Most, when they hear about your diagnosis, say they're sorry... It's not cancer. It's not a death sentence. Second, worrying about her academic future. The state of our public school system and in many areas' systems barely meet the needs of the typically developing child. Third, SPD equates to a lot of tantrums which can rear their ugly head at all the wrong times. Finding the patience is a challenge.

 

FF: What would you say is your greatest joy in raising your child?

DP: Grayson's smiles, giggles, and hugs.

 

FF: What would you say has been the biggest help you in raising your kids?

DP: Having great intuition led me to seek and receive early intervention by our amazing Kennedy Krieger Institute Team. In addition, I am a member of BaltimoreMommies, a local chapter of TheMommiesNetwork.

 

FF: Give us one tool you would hate to live without.

DP: My KKI Team and my Mommies network!

 

FF: If you could give one piece of advice to another parent who's child has just been diagnosed, what would it be?

DP: Breathe and stay off the internet except to find a support group. Join all the support groups you can find!

 

Dianna, thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us and all the readers here at Fun and Function.

If you would like to be a featured parent or professional, just let us know!