Celebrating Thanksgiving for Children with Autism? Tips for Families

Thanksgiving is a time to come together with loved ones and celebrate gratitude. However, for families with children on the autism spectrum, the holiday can present unique challenges due to sensory sensitivities, changes in routine, and social expectations. With a few adjustments, families can create a positive, inclusive Thanksgiving experience for everyone.

Prepare Ahead of Time

Children with autism thrive on structure and predictability. Preparing them for the changes associated with Thanksgiving can help ease anxiety. Share details about the day in advance, such as:

• Where the celebration will take place
• Who will be attending
• What activities will happen (e.g., eating, talking, etc.)

Creating a visual schedule can help your child understand what to expect and feel more in control of the day.

Maintain Familiar Routines

Thanksgiving is often a break from the usual routine, but keeping certain elements of your child’s daily schedule—such as meal times, nap times, or favorite activities—can provide a sense of stability and will help ease transitions throughout the day.

Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment

Thanksgiving gatherings can be loud and bustling, which may be overwhelming for children with autism. To help manage sensory overload:

• Set up a quiet space where your child can retreat if they feel overstimulated
• Bring familiar sensory tools, such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or weighted blankets
• Encourage short breaks away from the crowd as needed

Adapt the Menu

Many children on the autism spectrum have strong preferences for certain textures or tastes. Thanksgiving dinners may feature unfamiliar foods, which could cause discomfort. Instead, consider offering:

• Favorite foods from your child’s typical diet alongside traditional Thanksgiving dishes
• A chance for your child to help plan the menu or assist in cooking, which may encourage them to try something new

Practice Gratitude in a Way That Feels Comfortable

Thanksgiving is centered around gratitude, but traditional ways of expressing thanks—such as going around the table and sharing aloud—may be challenging for some children with autism. Consider alternative ways to involve your child in expressing gratitude:

• Writing or drawing things they are thankful for
• Creating a gratitude jar where family members can place notes throughout the day
• Using non-verbal communication or a communication device to share their thoughts

Manage Expectations and Be Flexible

Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be open to modifying your Thanksgiving plans to meet your child’s needs. If they need extra time to adjust or prefer to skip parts of the day, that’s okay! Creating a stress-free, enjoyable holiday for the entire family is important.

By planning ahead and making accommodations, families can celebrate Thanksgiving in a way that feels comfortable and joyous for children with autism. The key is to remain flexible, patient, and focused on creating memories that are meaningful for everyone.

From all of us at The Deron School, we wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving!

Choose The Deron School

Our team of educators and specialists is here to provide support and guidance as you navigate these special moments. If you believe that your child would benefit from our wide array of resources and services, don’t hesitate to contact us with any admission inquiries.