What Is a Potluck? “We’re going to a potluck Thanksgiving.” My daughter looked confused. What’s a potluck? Why are we bringing food if we’re guests? Who decides what we bring?…
Sleeping Away From Home Sometimes Thanksgiving involves sleeping at a relative’s house. For my daughter with autism, sleeping in an unfamiliar bed, different sounds, new smells, and disrupted bedtime routines…
The Parade From Your Couch Watching the Thanksgiving parade on TV is calmer than attending in person, but even from home, the loud music, bright visuals, and three-hour duration can…
The Day Everything Made Sense When the educational psychologist looked up from her assessment report and said, “Your daughter has dyslexia,” I felt a mix of emotions—relief, worry, and determination…
Crafting Without the Chaos Thanksgiving crafts can be wonderful activities—or sensory nightmares. Glue, paint, glitter, and messy textures can overwhelm kids with autism who have tactile sensitivities. Autism-Friendly Thanksgiving Crafts…
“Everyone Say Cheese!” Family photos are a Thanksgiving tradition, but for my daughter with autism, posing for pictures involves multiple challenges: stopping her current activity, standing still, making eye contact…
The Day After Thanksgiving Thanksgiving weekend is over. Now what? For my daughter with autism, returning to normal routines after days of disruption requires intentional support and planning. Why Post-Thanksgiving…
When Yesterday’s Dinner Becomes Today’s Lunch For many families, Thanksgiving leftovers are a highlight—turkey sandwiches, reheated stuffing, and pie for breakfast. But for my daughter with autism and restricted eating,…
When Shopping Day Follows Thanksgiving Black Friday—the day after Thanksgiving—brings massive crowds, sensory chaos, and shopping frenzy. For my daughter with autism, Black Friday stores are nightmare environments: fluorescent lights,…
When Thanksgiving Isn’t at Your House Celebrating Thanksgiving at a relative’s house or another location adds layers of complexity for my daughter with autism. Unfamiliar bathrooms, different furniture arrangements, strange…