Tomorrow we celebrate Thanksgiving in America.  Many of us have had to radically alter family traditions to help our kids with autism navigate holidays. Food is the focus, and a traditional dinner is loaded with gluten, casein and other behavior triggers. I remember one holiday when my sister put butter on the green beans and I went ballistic. It wasn't a pretty as a picture Holiday moment. Below is an article with some basic ideas to help make a holiday easier for a child with special needs. For us old timers, it's rather basic, but good reminders that we must  make each holiday fit our family, no matter where we may be.  Let us know your tricks that make the holiday a treat.

From MetroKids:

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends and to give thanks for the many gifts we experience in our lives every day. While it’s a wonderful and meaningful tradition, it can be an emotional obstacle course for families of children and adolescents with special needs. Here are a few tips from Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health in Villanova, PA on how to transform the holiday season into something special, exciting and supportive for everyone.

1. Prepare: Before making a trip to celebrate with family, or having family at your house, take time to prepare your child for the upcoming journey or family gathering. Using short, descriptive sentences. Pictures from prior years can be a big help.

2. Maintain routine as much as possible: It can be difficult to maintain a routine during family gatherings, but upholding some elements of your child’s routine can be helpful for everyone. Eat dinner at your usual time. And bring activities, games and devices that will bring your child comfort.