Don't slide into describing yourself in terms of affiliation to a school or facility. "My child goes to X school" is different from identifying yourself as
"I am an X school parent." Pay close attention if you notice it is normal and even encouraged that people identify themselves as "X school parents."
When we so identify ourselves with an institution, we risk equating ourselves with that institution and boundary blurring begins. We are less able to recognize early warning signs that something is amiss.
Never allow yourself to get intimidated by gossip or rumors that people are kicked out or fired if they ask too many questions or are regarded as too difficult. An atmosphere of intimidation can be fostered through hints and gossip just as much as through tanks and jackboots.
Don't let yourself succumb to a grinding subtle fear that you or your loved one are in danger of getting banished if you dare to ask questions or do something wrong.
You must not become hostage to any facility just because you or your loved one are paying less (or you are told you are paying less) because you or your loved one is on a grant, scholarship, insurance or sliding scale while others are paying full price.
You have as much right to express your opinion, voice misgivings, point out inconsistencies and ask questions as those who are paying full price.
Your primary loyalty is your loved one's welfare and your own dignity. Do not let anyone trick you into believing that a school or care facility or therapist is your only affordable option and that you or loved one are doomed if you are kicked out or leave. your are supposed to be humble, eat your gruel and not dare ask for more like Oliver Twist.
You are entrusting your loved one to this facility; you have a duty of care to your loved one and THAT COMES FIRST.
"I am an X school parent." Pay close attention if you notice it is normal and even encouraged that people identify themselves as "X school parents."
When we so identify ourselves with an institution, we risk equating ourselves with that institution and boundary blurring begins. We are less able to recognize early warning signs that something is amiss.
Never allow yourself to get intimidated by gossip or rumors that people are kicked out or fired if they ask too many questions or are regarded as too difficult. An atmosphere of intimidation can be fostered through hints and gossip just as much as through tanks and jackboots.
Don't let yourself succumb to a grinding subtle fear that you or your loved one are in danger of getting banished if you dare to ask questions or do something wrong.
You must not become hostage to any facility just because you or your loved one are paying less (or you are told you are paying less) because you or your loved one is on a grant, scholarship, insurance or sliding scale while others are paying full price.
You have as much right to express your opinion, voice misgivings, point out inconsistencies and ask questions as those who are paying full price.
Your primary loyalty is your loved one's welfare and your own dignity. Do not let anyone trick you into believing that a school or care facility or therapist is your only affordable option and that you or loved one are doomed if you are kicked out or leave. your are supposed to be humble, eat your gruel and not dare ask for more like Oliver Twist.
You are entrusting your loved one to this facility; you have a duty of care to your loved one and THAT COMES FIRST.