My ds7 has a dx of ASD & ADHD.
I have 5 dc in total. 2 grown up, then dd11, ds7 & ds4. I have recently found out i am pregnant, due in September.
DP and I had discussed having more dc, we took the view of, not right now, but never say never. We know the risks of having another dc with SN.
Dp has been fantastic. I was concerned he would possibly be overwhelmed but, not at all. He's supportive and I have probably never felt so supported by him. (Previously, he really struggled with ds and he withdrew from the children & I during the whole dx process).
My concern is telling my family about the new baby, esp my sister and mum. They constantly go on about me or dp being sterilised. They both consider me to be wasting my time having kids, instead of the career i had to give up as ds only started full time school in the last few months.
I hate the pity, sympathy and all that miserable crap my family project on me. My ds has totally changed me, for the better. I have achieved so much for him. I nearly drove myself insane fighting the medical system, education systems, welfare systems and the on going issues that come with having a child with complex needs. But i am stronger, calmer and more confident because of ds.
Sorry i am rambling! If you had a SN dc & have gone onto have more children, how did you deal with friends/family negative reactions? Did you tell them individually or make it a general announcement?
I am concerned the new baby could have SN but i am not over thinking it...(apart from last night at 3am). How did other parents deal with this?
TIA !!