Episode Summary
A forever home isn’t just a physical space—it’s a lifelong foundation of love, care, and possibility. In this episode, host Valerie Arbeau, mom to two children with disabilities, author, and life coach, guides parents through the essential first steps in creating a secure and sustainable forever home for their child.
Through the analogy of building a house, Valerie walks listeners through ten guiding questions that help families think practically and compassionately about their child’s future—from location and independence to legal planning and continuity of care.
Key Topics Covered
- Building a Strong Foundation
- How planning a forever home is like building a house—every decision adds strength, structure, and purpose.
- Safety and Comfort
- Creating spaces that support physical, emotional, and sensory safety.
- Reflection: What helps your child feel grounded and calm?
- Independence and Support
- Encouraging supported independence through tools, structure, and confidence.
- Real-life examples of adaptive supports and gradual independence.
- Choosing a Housing Model
- Exploring options like shared living, supported apartments, or suites on family property.
- Involving your child in decisions, no matter how they communicate.
- Location and Belonging
- Considering proximity to family, community, healthcare, and inclusive spaces.
- Planting your child where they can grow and thrive.
- Building a Support Network
- Identifying family, friends, and community members who will walk alongside your child.
- How to start gentle, future-focused conversations.
- Financial Foundations
- Understanding government supports, grants, trusts, and financial planning.
- Why working with disability-informed professionals matters.
- Daily Routines that Nurture Growth
- Designing a rhythm of life that balances structure, joy, and rest.
- Legal Considerations
- Creating clarity around guardianship, power of attorney, and documentation.
- Ensuring your child’s care continues seamlessly.
- Continuity of Care
- Planning for your child’s future beyond your lifetime.
- Passing on your vision, values, and love with confidence and clarity.
Reflection Prompts
- What would make my child’s home feel like a sanctuary—for their body and heart?
- How can I gradually increase their independence with dignity?
- Who can I invite into our long-term circle of care?
- What legacy of love and security do I want to leave behind?
Key Takeaway
“You don’t need to have all the answers right now. With each question you ask and each decision you make, you’re laying the foundation for a future that will stand strong.”
Keep building your child’s future.
Live with Intention — Embrace the Journey.
Connect with Valerie
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)
Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/
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