Normal Schmormal: My Occasionally Helpful Guide to Parenting Kids with Special Needs

'Normal Schmormal' is a funny, irreverent and loving book by Ashley Blaker, tackling parenting, adoption and raising children with special needs. It highlights the challenges and rewards of parenting children with additional needs, with humour, compassion and love.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2024
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Ashley Blaker's "Normal Schmormal" is a heartwarming and hilarious part-memoir, part-guide that tackles parenting, adoption, and raising children with special needs. The book has received positive reviews from publications such as the Daily Express and has been described as "a funny, irreverent, and loving book." Blaker, a comedian and father-of-six, has six children, three of whom have an SEN diagnosis. The book highlights the many challenges and rewarding elements of parenting children with additional needs, written with humor, compassion, and love. It is a must-read for parents, carers, and teachers of children with SEN, offering support and laughter.

Blaker's book is a personal account of his experiences as a parent of children with special needs. He shares his struggles, frustrations, and joys, providing insights into the daily challenges faced by families with SEN children. He also offers practical advice and tips on how to navigate the complex world of special needs education and healthcare.

One of the key themes of "Normal Schmormal" is the importance of acceptance and understanding. Blaker emphasizes that children with special needs are just like any other children, with unique personalities, interests, and abilities. He encourages parents to embrace their children's differences and to celebrate their achievements, rather than focusing on their limitations.

Blaker also discusses the impact of parenting children with special needs on the entire family. He shares stories of his own family's struggles and how they have overcome them together. He emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents, as well as the need to create a supportive network of family and friends.

The book is filled with humorous anecdotes and relatable stories. Blaker's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to connect with his experiences. He uses humor to lighten the mood and to make difficult topics more approachable.

However, "Normal Schmormal" is not without its challenges. Blaker shares stories of public humiliations, failed playdates, and surreal monologues. He also discusses the emotional toll that parenting children with special needs can take on parents. He emphasizes the importance of seeking support and taking care of oneself.

One of the strengths of "Normal Schmormal" is its ability to provide a sense of community. Blaker includes interviews with other parents of children with special needs, as well as professionals who work in the field. These interviews provide valuable insights and perspectives, and help to break down the stigma surrounding special needs.

In addition to its personal stories, "Normal Schmormal" also includes practical advice and tips on how to manage the day-to-day challenges of parenting children with special needs. Blaker provides information on sensory issues, speech and language therapy, and behavior management. He also offers advice on how to navigate the school system and to advocate for your child's needs.

One of the most important messages of "Normal Schmormal" is that children with special needs are capable of achieving great things. Blaker shares stories of his own children's achievements, and encourages parents to believe in their children's potential. He emphasizes the importance of setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories.

In conclusion, "Normal Schmormal" is a heartwarming and hilarious part-memoir, part-guide that tackles parenting, adoption, and raising children with special needs. It is written with humor, compassion, and love, and provides practical advice and tips on how to navigate the complex world of special needs education and healthcare. Blaker's book is a must-read for parents, carers, and teachers of children with SEN, offering support and laughter. While it is not without its challenges, it provides a sense of community and encourages parents to believe in their children's potential.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 151 x 198 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008558147