The parent explained that it was difficult to decide which aspect was most difficult since the "difficult aspect" changed depending on the age of the child. the child. This is an important aspect that all special educators must remember when establishing and maintaining relationships with families of students with special needs. As the manual states: “Each family is a unique unit that changes through stages and transitions in the family life cycle” (Martha E. Snell, 2011, p. 60). The manual goes on to explain that special education professionals need to be aware of life cycle stages and transitions. “Two dimensions of the family life cycle that are important for educators to understand include (a) life cycle stages and (b) life cycle transitions” (Martha E. Snell, 2011, p..