Worried about federal and state education policies in the current administration? That’s totally reasonable. Parents of neurodivergent kids have many reasons to be worried.
Education policies are taking a hit. Deep cuts to the Department of Education–not to mention its potential dismantling. Budget reductions in local schools. Changes to programs like IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). All of this gives us reason to be worried–worrying that can become overwhelming, particularly when you also have a child at home who demands a lot from you.
Here’s your permission slip to feel anxious. It’s a totally normal response to an unpredictable situation.
AND–big and statement here: staying calm is important, not just for you, but for your kiddo. We know that Orchid Kids are highly sensitive to the emotions of the people around them. If they sense that you’re overwhelmed, they absorb that stress. When you stay calm, you create a stable foundation for them, even in uncertain times. Your steady presence reassures them that, no matter what’s happening in the world–no matter what happens to education policies–they have a caregiver who is strong and capable of navigating challenges. And for you, staying calm allows you to think more clearly, make better decisions, and take action in ways that truly help.
Anxiety makes everything feel urgent and impossible, but a calm mind can break things down into manageable steps. Here are some ways to manage your worries and take positive steps forward.
1. You can’t control education policies, so focus on what you can control
You can’t single-handedly stop funding cuts, but you can take action in ways that matter. If you can find a feeling of determination or motivation, you can focus on what’s within your power:
- Learn about your child’s rights as they relate to education policies. IDEA is still the law, and even if it faces changes, there are still protections in place for children with disabilities.
- Talk to your child’s teachers and school administrators. They can help you understand what services are still available and how to advocate for more.
- Connect with other parents. There are local and online groups, like Raising Orchid Kids, where parents share resources, advice, and support. You do NOT have to figure this out alone.
2. Take action where you can
Feeling powerless can make anxiety worse. But taking action—no matter how small—can help you feel more in control. These are suggestions–ignore the ones that don’t feel feasible (which might be all of them!) and consider the ones that feel doable.
- Reach out to local representatives. Let them know why special education funding matters to you. Even a simple email or phone call can make a difference on pushing for sound education policies.
- Attend school board meetings. Local decisions affect your child’s school the most. Stay informed and speak up when necessary.
- Look for alternative resources or consider a different educational path. What might be possible if you allow yourself to think ‘outside the box’ a bit more? Neighborhood microschool? Homeschool? What if it could work? What would you do?
3. No matter what happens with education policies, build a strong support system
Worry feels heavier when you carry it alone. Build a network of people who understand your concerns. Remember–you don’t have to do this alone!
- Talk to other parents of Orchid Kids. (Our facebook group is a great free way to do that!) They have advice or know about resources you haven’t considered.
- Find professionals who can help. Special education advocates, therapists, and school counselors can guide you through challenges no matter what happens with education policies. If you haven’t already taken our Core Course, we have one starting soon!
- Take care of yourself, too. When you’re calm and supported, you can better support your child. What do you need to do for yourself? How do you get regulated? (Hint: do more of that).
4. Remember that kids resilient
Although Orchid Kids do struggle with resilience at times, a strong, caring adult in their corner can buffer them against stressors and changes happening at the macro level. Schools and policies may shift, but your love and commitment to your child’s success won’t, and that’s what they feel the most. The rest is noise.
5. Take care of what’s in front of you
Instead of worrying about the worst-case scenario, focus on today. What’s one thing you can do right now to support your child’s education? Maybe it’s reading up on their rights, reaching out to a teacher, or joining a parent group. Small steps lead to big changes over time.
6. Trust yourself to make good decisions
It’s easy to become paralyzed in trying to make the “right decision” about education for your child. That’s even harder when education policies are changing at dizzying speed. Rather than spinning on making The Right Decision (for all time), see if you can come to trusting yourself to make a good decision based on your current facts on the ground. Then see if you can ALSO trusting yourself to change that decision should that become necessary. You make good decisions. And you can change your mind about what those decisions are. You’ve totally got this.
PS – if you’d like some more support and a chance to meet other families who understand what you’re going through, we have a Core Course starting this Thursday! Learn more here.