ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses what is known about the experiences of mothers of children with intellectual and development disability (IDD), including those mothers who are primary caregivers and represent single-parent families. Mothers of children with IDD may encounter challenges, with single and working mothers often more at-risk for stress than their full-time parent counterparts. However, moments of stress and difficulty don't define this population, as mothers also describe the positive impact that parenting a child with IDD has had on their life. Professionals working with mothers consider utilizing more rounded and holistic perspective, taking into account both positive and negative experiences that mothers may hold as a part of their story, and respond according to the needs of each unique mother. Finally, policy-makers may wish to consider how mothers' experiences of raising and caring for children with IDD are unique in comparison to mothers of typically developing children, and shape laws and policies according to the needs of a diverse community.
