The SpecialMoms Parenting Magazine 4th Issue | Page 33

tennis team together! Who would have thought
that would have happened ten years ago? We had
more challenges initially with a high school cheer
coach who is no longer part of the program…she
had more concern about AnnCatherine’s participation based on limitations…for instance she can’t
stunt. Frankly, some of her reasons simply felt like
she didn’t want her to participate in the program.
We had to advocate, push, and get some outside
help and advice. It worked out but not without
effort on our part AnnCatherine learned a lot but
also taught all of them a lot. As much as that coach
was reluctant, the other cheerleaders were not…I
can’t say enough nice things about them. They
have her back! They spent time with her initial-

ly to help her get up to speed on the cheers and
will often text ME the night before something to
remind me about times/where to be/what to wear
(I think there are 1,000 cheer uniforms). The current coaching staff is phenomenal with her and has
been so kind to set her up for success as part of the
squad.
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How do the other teams react to her as a
player?
The other teams treat her like everyone else. We
have noticed in regards to tennis, the players she
has played against have been exceptionally kind
and encouraging. AnnCatherine plays summer
tennis in the Washington Township Program as
well, so she’s been fortunate to know some of her
competitors…they’ll go out of their way to be kind
to her. They treat her like everyone else.

I am terrified thinking about how much
more I am going to have to advocate
for my son who is 8 years old when
he gets to high school, can you
share with us some tips that you
learned while advocating for your
daughter in school?
Pick your battles; if you’re going to take on
a cause, make sure it’s worth it…not every
cause will be. Listen to the concern of the
coach/teacher/counselor…some may be
valid some may not be. Be gracious and
appreciative…federal law says they have to
provide inclusive education…there is no
law that says they have to be nice about it.
Special needs children are more work. For
parents, teachers, coaches…recognize that
and be thankful. Ask for a partnership
from your child’s teachers/coaches/counselors. Share success stories…when your
child shares something they learned in a
class, communicate that with the teacher…make sure they know they are valued. Expect
your child to do their part and hold them to that
standard.

I’m sure she has an IEP, can you share
with us if it states that she will graduate
with a high school diploma or certificate
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