Parenting All God’s Children
Presented by: (add presenter name here)
Written by: Denise Dunzweiler, PhD
Graduate School Dean at the Adventist International Institute of
Advanced Studies in Silang, Cavite, Philippines.
From Revival and Reformation: Families Reaching Across.
Current Research
• 1 in 88 children have been identified with an
autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• More than 15.04% of school-aged kids had a
developmental disability in 2006-2008
• Previously 12.84% in 1997-1999
• 1 in 6 children in the United States have some
developmental disability
Welcome to the Family
• First reactions: anger, blame, denial, as
well as grief, anxiety, fear, guilt, shame
and depression.
• Awakening: acknowledging the reality of
medical appointments, tests, jargon,
uncertainty and next steps.
• Hope: develops as feelings are shared
and validated with supportive people.
Seth’s Story
• Discuss:
• Reflect on the struggles this new family
must deal with.
• As a friend, pastor, relative, co-worker,
church member, or parent of a child with
disabilities, discuss ways you might show
your love and support to this family.
Spiritual Parenting
• All Christian parents want their children to
know Jesus.
• Parents of a child with disabilities will need
to be explicit and plan their spiritual lessons
• Example: Praying before meals
• Spiritual parenting books and resources
must be adapted for use with a child with
disabilities.
Seth’s Story
• Discuss:
• What do you think the best response would
be to this child and his mother from one of
the following points of view:
– Church pastor
– Church secretary
– Church member
– Sabbath School teacher or leader
Advocacy, Mandates and Laws
• It is important to understand state and
federal laws in your region.
• Advocate: Actively support fulfilling the
child’s special needs
• Understand the rights of the children in
your life.
Inclusiveness
• Inclusiveness: Accommodation,
modification and support to meet the
child’s needs
• For an example of a resource for
inclusive educational systems see
REACH at circle.adventist.org
• We want every child to experience
success.
Seth’s Story
• In groups of two (you and your spouse,
or a friend), discuss:
• How you, as a parent of a child with disabilities
would deal with your school-age child who has
been identified with disabilities.
• What steps you would take to get your child
involved with the church and Sabbath School, enroll
him in a Seventh-day Adventist school, and keep
your personal and family spiritual life alive and
vibrant.
Seth’s Story
• Discuss:
• How can you best relate to Christian parents of a
child with disabilities in order to help their family
overcome the challenges and relish the joys of
parenting a child who has disabilities?
• If you are a church member, pastor, friend or
teacher, how might you be able to show Christ
through your actions in an inclusive Adventist
setting to this family?