Applying the Love Languages in Families with Special Needs

Some of the most amazing people I have meet are those with special needs.

I think of Trevor Hendershot. He and his dad visited Focus on the Family a few years ago. Trevor is a vivacious young man with Down Syndrome who serves as a greeter for the Los Angeles Angels and the Anaheim Ducks.

Tyler Sexton is also a friend of our ministry. He has cerebral palsy and works as a physician specializing in pediatrics.

Their lives are precious. They impact the world and glorify God in outstanding ways.

Nevertheless, raising a child with special needs is fraught with challenges. Everyday routines can be burdensome.

I recently spoke with author Jolene Philo, who grew up in a caregiving family and, along with her husband Hiram, raised a son with medical special needs. As a teacher for 25 years, she created an inclusive classroom for children with disabilities. She’s authored several books for the special needs and disability community, including one she wrote with bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman titled Sharing Love Abundantly in Special Needs Families: The 5 Love Languages for Parents Raising Children with Disabilities.

We’re talking with Jolene about her book on our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Applying Love Languages in Families with Special Needs.”

Jolene helps parents of children with disabilities or special needs discover their child’s love language in order to show love to their child better. She also addresses threats to marriage in special needs families including time constraints, financial strain, guilt and grief, isolation, geographic separation, worry, and lack of support – all issues Jolene wishes she had been more aware of when her son was born with specal needs.

Listen to our full conversation on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.

Dr. Gary Chapman and Jolene Philo’s book Sharing Love Abundantly in Special Needs Families: The 5 Love Languages for Parents Raising Children with Disabilities is available for a gift of any amount. Click here for more information or give us a call at 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).