Trusting Your Gut When New Information Changes Everything
Hey everyone,
This week we officially move into October, and the school year has hit its rhythm. For many of us, this time of year involves big decisions: whether to pursue a new evaluation, change a therapy, or even consider medication. It brings to mind one of the most stressful periods my husband and I faced when making choices for our son.
For years, we stood firm on our decision not to use stimulant medication for his ADHD, worried about side effects and hoping we could manage it through behavioral supports. I won't pretend there weren't times I questioned that choice, wondering if life would be easier for him—and for us—if he could just focus better. But we stood firm, believing we were doing the best thing with the information we had.
Then came high school, and a new diagnosis: narcolepsy. Suddenly, the need for medication wasn't about focus; it was about function. He needed stimulant medication just to stay awake. It was an incredibly difficult transition, and it caused a lot of stress as we tried to find a medication that allowed him to be alert without causing personality changes. A small part of me hoped it would help his focus and executive function, but the primary driver was necessity: the choice was between our son living in a constant fog or being able to participate in his life. After all those years of avoiding medication, we finally embraced it because the new information—the narcolepsy diagnosis—made it the right choice.
This experience taught me a profound lesson that I hope to share with you: As parents, we know when the time is right to pivot. We make the best choices with the information available to us at the time. When that information changes, or a new evaluation sheds a clearer light on the situation, it is always okay to adjust your course and move forward with clarity, knowing your past decisions were made out of love.
Podcast Updates:
This week’s episode ties directly into receiving that crucial "new information."
Episode #139: How to Know if Your Child Qualifies for Special Education is a focused look at how evaluations are the foundation of your child's entire educational plan. Whether you're seeking a first-time service or considering new interventions, understanding the evaluation process is the key to making informed decisions. This episode is a short solo episode, and I walk you through the process of requesting an evaluation for your child.
Webpage: https://waterprairie.com/2025/09/28/special-education-evaluation/
Don't forget last week’s Episode #138 with Luba Patlakh, where we discussed the critical differences between school and private speech therapy. If you have any questions about your child's communication, this expert guidance will help you determine the next best step for your family.
Webpage: https://waterprairie.com/2025/09/22/early-speech-therapy/
Trusting Your Past Decisions
In the current media landscape, it's easy for reports—even those from high-profile figures—to cause us to question past parenting choices, whether it involves medication, vaccines, or specific therapies.
Please know this: You did not harm your child by making the best decision you could with the information you had. Stand firm in your love and your commitment. It is healthy to question new reports and do your own research as new data emerges, but you can release the guilt over past choices. You are your child’s most devoted advocate, and your actions have always been guided by their well-being.
In celebration of my husband Steve's birthday this week, I'm giving you a gift! My Goodnight Moon and Five Monkeys Story Kits are 15% off until October 5th, 2025. These kits are wonderful, low-stress ways to connect with your child through literature and play.
- Use promo code STEVE25 at checkout.
New Resource Directory: Keep the Suggestions Coming!
Thank you to everyone who has already sent in suggestions! I am continuing to build a public directory of service providers across the US (OTs, PTs, counselors, etc.) who work with families of children with disabilities.
If you know of a great provider or would like your own practice to be included, please reply to this email, and I will follow up with you personally.
Your Next Best Step
Just as our family had to pivot after a new diagnosis, the IEP process often requires a shift in strategy. Your original choices were made with love, and your next choice can be made with confidence.
If you have an annual IEP meeting coming up before the end of the year and want to discuss your strategy, schedule a free consultation with me. Let's make sure you're ready to make the best decisions moving forward.
Wishing you clarity and peace,
Tonya
