What a lovely surprise!!! My guest Cheryll Wagner and I unknowingly reunite after 19 years on a Zoom interview as Cheryll shares about raising independent children.

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Title: Strategies for Raising Independent Children

Episode Description:

In this episode, Valerie sits down with Cheryll, a dedicated mother of two sons with Joubert syndrome. They dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of raising children with special needs, discussing the importance of focusing on abilities rather than limitations.
Cheryll passionately shares her philosophy that her sons are not defined by their disability but are definitely limited by it in society. She emphasizes the significance of pushing children to reach their full potential and not settling for the easiest path. Together, they explore the impact of societal limitations, the importance of fostering independence, and the benefits of programs like Special Olympics.     They touch on the mental health struggles faced by children with disabilities, the crucial role of early intervention, and the value of a supportive community. Cheryll and Valerie discuss their personal experiences with launching their children into independent living, highlighting the importance of preparation and planning.

Key Takeaways:

• Focus on Abilities: Cheryll discusses how she keeps her sons focused on their abilities rather than their limitations, fostering a positive environment for growth.
• Importance of Special Olympics: Both Cheryll and Valerie highlight the transformative impact of the Special Olympics in creating meaningful friendships and promoting independence.
• Pushing for Potential: The importance of pushing children to achieve their best and not settling for less, even when it's challenging.
• Mental Health Awareness: Addressing the mental health struggles of children with disabilities and the importance of early and consistent support.
• Launching into Independence: Practical advice and personal stories on preparing special needs children for independent living, including the role of support workers and housing subsidies.
• Self-Care for Moms: Valerie introduces her "Time Out" program, emphasizing the need for moms to take care of themselves to better support their children.

Cheryll Wagner has been riding the entrepreneurial wave since she was 13. Cheryll became a special needs mom at age 21, has two grown sons, both with special needs. Being their mom has taught her more than any MBA program ever could. Cheryll's sons moved out on their own with supports two years ago. Last year, Cheryll and her husband became therapeutic foster parents. Cheryll is the woman behind BYOBusiness Strategy and Consulting. Cheryll focuses on workshops, mentorship, business consulting, and masterminds that are geared towards women in business.

Connect with Cheryll:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryllwagner?
• Https://byobusiness.ca
• Instagram & Threads: byobizstrategy

Thank you for tuning in. We hope this episode leaves you inspired and uplifted. See you in two weeks!


Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk


Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX   (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

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Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/