Some children with developmental disabilities show their frustrations by aggressive and/or self-harming behavior. For example, my son goes through periods where he digs his nails in his own fingers causing them to bleed and leave sores. Then there are times he scratches, pulls hair, kicks or bites others, or has a full-on meltdown when he doesn’t want to do something. Thankfully his nurse, and physical therapist are patient and fully aware that this type of behavior comes with the territory.

I will admit it challenging for me and my family; especially when we are out in public. The goal is to try and stay calm, even with people staring and wondering why I can’t control my kid. Now there are individuals that know us personally, so they understand the situation and try to be supportive. I try to not concern myself with the rest of the world’s opinion concerning the matter, since they don’t know me or my child and couldn’t possibly understand the situation (unless of course they have a child or relative with developmental disabilities).

The other thing that is challenging yet necessary it to set boundaries and consequences. Aggressive behavior IS NOT OKAY. I can understand the why, but allowing him to harm himself or others cannot be ignored or accepted. Now that he is getting a little older, the aggression is becoming more frequent, so I will be speaking with his PCP to see what measures we can take to help. In the meantime, I just have to remember to stay calm rather than getting upset.