It's that time of year again- Some helpful Thanksgiving Tips!

Thanksgiving is a special time of year where we spend time with family and friends and reflect on what we are grateful for. It is important to introduce your traditions to your family and maybe create some new ones for your child with special needs. Make them feel involved and let them know they can participate in all the holiday fun!

Here are some helpful tips for Turkey Day!

- Your child won't eat turkey? It's OK! Let them have whatever they usually eat for dinner, even if it means they will be having chicken nuggets. If this will make your child feel more comfortable, and quite frankly make it easier for you, then go for it! Thanksgiving isn't just about the turkey!

- You don't have to conform to the "norm". What is the "norm" anyway? Let your child pick out their own outfit. Don't worry if it doesn't match, they will be happy that they were included in the decision making process.

- Make sure your child still gets their own down time during the day. Maybe think about bringing their favorite movie or music to listen to. This will help calm them down during all the holiday chaos. 

- Think about hosting the holiday at your house. Your child will be the most comfortable on their own turf. Change is very hard for some children and by having the dinner at your own house it is one less variable for them to get used to. Divide up the meal among your guests so all the pressure isn't on you.

What are your plans for this Thanksgiving?

What are your holiday traditions? 

Also if you have any helpful tips for the holidays please feel free to share!

Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

"Gratitude is an inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is following that impulse." - Henry Van Dyke

www.enablingdevies.com