Kelle Hampton’s Beautiful Blog

Kelle Hampton is a talented photographer and blogger, and the words and photographs that appear on her blog have attracted the attention of so many people. Her photographs are stunningly beautiful, and would not be out of place on the pages of a parenting magazine, or in an art gallery. Her words are honest, and come from her heart, even when it would be easier to sugar coat what she is trying to say. Together, the words and photos tell the story of what life is like as a mother of two beautiful daughters, one of whom happens to have … Continue reading

Remembering Your Kid is Just a Kid

As the parent of a special needs child, I can’t help but think of my child as special or unique. In late 2008, my daughter Lily was born with a detached esophagus that had to be surgically repaired three days after she was born. As a result, Lily never breastfed, never drank out of a bottle, and, until she was six months old, was only able to drink half an ounce of liquid by mouth each day. So without question, Lily is special. There are times, though, when I have to force myself to take a step back and recognize … Continue reading

Bonding with Your Baby with a Disability

Attachment is a lasting bond that develops early in a child’s life. Attachment can occur between the mother and child as well as with others: dad and child, grandparents and child, even foster parents can enhance a child’s life through attachment. Attachment is more than just an emotional bond, it is a critical component to the healthy development of the child. Children who experience attachment and feel the love of a caregiver have a better chance of growing into adults who are capable of sustaining lasting, close relationships. Some parents find it difficult to bond with a child who has … Continue reading