You are not your child’s voice. Even if they can’t speak. Even if you understand some of their communication. Even if you fight hard battles to get others to respect and support them.

Even if you need to say things on their behalf that they’re not able to say. Even if you’re currently the only effective advocate they have.

No matter how much you care about your child, no matter how much you get right, you’re not them. They have a perspective of their own, and they disagree with you on some things. (Because they’re people, and no two people agree on everything.)

You are not your child’s voice. You can only speak from your own perspective. You are not them. And you’ll be a more effective and respectful advocate if you keep this in mind.