Five tips for a special needs friendly Thanksgiving

The holidays can cause problems for children with special needs. There are noises, smells and people who are not familiar to them. Their routines change and that can be upsetting. Use these five tips to plan a happy Thanksgiving for the whole family.

 Credit:  MartinCathral on Flickr

Tell your children what to expect on the day.

If your children do not know what Thanksgiving is about, take the time to explain the holiday to them. Ask them to think of things they are thankful for.

If you are going to someone else’s house for Thanksgiving, explain to your children where you are going. Let your children know what they can expect when you arrive there. Tell them who will be there and what you think will happen. If you have photos of the house or any of the people, show them to your children before you go.

If you are hosting the dinner, tell your children what your plans are. Explain who is coming to dinner and what the meal will be. Again, if you have photos show them to your children.

Inform your guests or host about your children's needs

Whether you are hosting Thanksgiving or going to someone else’s home, inform them ahead of time of your children’s special needs. Explain how your children’s special needs may have an impact on the day.

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For example, if your children will only eat certain things, tell others about this issue ahead of the meal. You do not want someone to try to be helpful and coax your children to eat something you know could cause a meltdown. In addition, if your children do not like to be hugged and they have an aunt who is a hugger, ask their aunt beforehand to avoid hugging the children.

Make sure your children feel included

Depending on your children’s ages and abilities, think about ways they can help on the day. They may be able to help with food preparation, setting the table or even serving appetizers. If they like to draw or paint, ask them to make pictures you can use as decorations.

Plan activities for your children

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All children get bored, including children with special needs. Prepare a list of things your children can do if they get bored at home. Include several activities such as different videos, board games, outdoor sports and computer games. If you are going to someone else’s house, make sure you pack the items you need for these activities.

Organize a quiet zone for your children

If you are going to someone else’s house, speak with the host ahead of time so they understand your children’s need for a quiet area. Ask your host for a room or area that you can use as a quiet zone on the day. Bring some of your children’s favorite things such as a cuddly toy or blanket to put in the quiet zone. If your children enjoy music, bring an iPod with some relaxing music on it and put it in the quiet zone.

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If you are hosting Thanksgiving, make sure your children know where they can go when they need to relax. Tell other guests not to use that room or area.

If everything doesn't go according to plan, don't worry about it. If you get stressed, your children may feel stressed also. Your goal is to have a happy day with your family, not a perfect one.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

This article was originally published by me on Examiner.com.

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action