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For some children, happiness might look like:
swinging
favorite songs on repeat
water play
deep pressure hugs
lining up toys
animal videos
jumping, spinning, or movement
time with a trusted person

Helping children notice when they feel happiness and joy is an important life skill!

We loved this roundup of fun ways families can celebrate . A few of our favorite ideas from the list include:

*Have a picnic outdoors - even if it’s just in the backyard or local park.
*Do something creative together like painting, crafts, sidewalk chalk, or building something silly.
*Get moving as a family with a bike ride, dance party, nature walk, or another activity your child enjoys.
For many children with disabilities or sensory differences, meaningful connection often matters far more than “perfect” plans. Following their interests, comfort level, and joy is enough.

Check out the full list of ideas from here:

National Kids Day National Kids Day is held every year to celebrate children, spend time with them and help those in need.

For some children, progress might look like using a new word, tolerating a haircut, trying a new food, wearing socks, making a friend, or getting through the grocery store.

All steps are important steps.

Different emotions often need different kinds of support : movement, quiet, connection, sensory input, rest, or reassurance. These simple ideas can help children build emotional awareness and regulation in ways that feel safe and approachable.

Save this for later or share with someone who may find it helpful.

Thank you to NBC News for sharing such a joyful story about Gliding Stars and the power of inclusive recreation, community, and opportunity for people with disabilities.

Every child and adult deserves spaces where they can participate, belong, and shine.
Tagging a few organizations and communities who continue pushing inclusion forward every day:

NBC News Today Show Special Olympics Gliding Stars

Repetitive movement can help a child’s nervous system settle down. Some children also enjoy vibration or music paired with movement. Others prefer quiet movement without extra sensory input.

There’s no single “right” way to regulate so work on what feels good with your child.
Learn more about movement as a regulation tool on our blog https://starthereparents.org/2026/05/28/when-calm-doesnt-look-still/ here!

Accidents happen. Glasses break. Milk spills. Emotions get big. Mistakes are part of being human, for kids and adults alike.
A calm response doesn’t mean there are no boundaries or accountability. It means we lead with connection first.

The Atlantic with a great reminder for parents: “islands of competence.”
Instead of focusing on what your child struggles with, find what they’re good at - what lights them up - and build from there.

When kids feel capable in one area, that confidence carries into everything else.

This article explains it in a way that really shifts how we think about motivation:
https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2025/05/parenting-islands-of-competence-kids-motivation/682739/

The Wrong Way to Motivate Your Kid When children fall short, many parents’ instinct is to take away something they love. That’s the wrong impulse.

Your mental health matters, too.

Caring for a child, especially one with extra needs, can be overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. You don’t have to carry it all alone.

Small moments count: a walk, a pause, asking for help, taking a breath.
Save this for a reminder, and share with a parent who needs it today.

So, What Can They Actually Help With?
Parents often wonder: “When would I actually use this?”

Here are real examples:
You might reach out if…
• You feel your child isn’t receiving the services they’re approved for
• You’re not getting clear answers from providers or care managers
• There are concerns about staff behavior or quality of care
• You’re worried about safety, treatment, or respect
• You don’t know your rights, or feel like they’re not being honored

They can help by:
• Listening and understanding your situation
• Explaining your rights in plain language
• Helping you communicate concerns effectively
• Working behind the scenes to resolve issues
• Guiding next steps if something needs escalation

https://starthereparents.org/2026/04/23/when-something-doesnt-feel-right-a-free-independent-advocate-you-can-call/