03/08/2025
A few days back, I shared a post about scribbles on the walls, and I got a little bashing. I truly value this community and the diversity of perspectives we all bring. I just want to take a moment to share why this little act of my kids writing on the walls is so precious to me.
As a special needs mom and therapist, I see the world a bit differently. For my children, self-expression, in any form is something we work so hard to encourage. Every mark they make, every scribble, is a sign that they are engaging, exploring, and feeling safe enough to express themselves. For us, these little drawings on the wall are more than āmessā! Theyāre milestones, memories, and reminders of progress.
This doesnāt mean we donāt value boundaries or discipline. It just means we sometimes choose our battles differently. Walls can be cleaned and repainted, but these moments with our children, especially when they are finally comfortable enough to express themselves, are irreplaceable.
I completely understand that every parent has their own way, and I respect that. For me, these scribbles tell a story: one that I know I will cherish years from now when the house is quiet. My hope is that this post serves as a reminder that parenting doesnāt look the same for everyone, and thatās okay. Weāre all doing our best with the circumstances weāre given!
Not all children can or should be disciplined the same way.
Especially children with developmental delays or neurodiverse profiles.
What looks like "scribbling on walls" to someā¦ might actually be:
A form of communication
A way to express overwhelming emotions
An activity that strengthens gross motor control
A step toward developing pre-writing and language skills
š± Science tells us that when children scribble freely:
They're exercising arm and shoulder muscles (important for posture and control)
They're practicing early symbolic thinking, which links to language development
They're experimenting with cause and effect, which builds cognitive skills
So instead of jumping to discipline, what if we paused and asked:
āWhat is this child trying to tell me?ā
Children donāt always have the words. They donāt understand NO!
Sometimes, they leave their message in crayon.
Letās respond with understanding, not punishment.
Letās meet them where they are and guide them forward with love and intention.
