ABA Therapy Tips for Thanksgiving

At Positive Reinforcement, we desire Thanksgiving and all Holidays to be fun for children with autism. Our ABA Therapy team realizes that holidays can present some special challenges for children with autism. Children with autism tend to thrive on consistency and routine. Thanksgiving dinners, whether a small or large group, can be overwhelming for children with autism. Our ABA Therapy team has put together a few tips on how to plan ahead, avoid sensory overload and cope with excitement, making Thanksgiving a special day for the whole family and a little less challenging. 

Include your Child in Preparations

Thanksgiving along with other Holidays can be loaded with festive celebrations and activities. Children on the autism spectrum feel safe when there is a consistent and predictable routine in place. Help your child prepare for the big day by keeping them informed. Start off by marking it on the calendar. Let your child choose something special to bring along on that day, such as a toy, book, or game. Discuss where you are going, who will be there, and what you’re doing. 

Allow your Child to Dress Comfortably

For Thanksgiving or any Holiday festivities, people make a tradition of dressing up. Children with sensory issues need to be dressed comfortably. Consider letting your child have some control over the dressing process by giving them a choice of what clothes they can wear. Always dress for comfort and not the occasion. 

Prevent Sensory Overload from Noisy Environment

Thanksgiving gatherings can get loud fast with all the family and friends gathering for food and celebration. Ask the host before everyone starts arriving about a quiet place for your child to relax and find relief from the high level of noise. 

Consider Planning Ahead on Food

It’s common for children with autism spectrum to have problems with eating, such as food selectivity or eating a limited variety of food. Consider bringing your own food for your child to eat. Thanksgiving also offers an opportunity to overeat. An over-excited child can make themselves sick by gorging themselves. 

Be Thankful

Keep expectations realistic and ask friends and family for help when you need it. Be thankful and enjoy this cherished Holiday. Happy Thanksgiving! 

To find out more about ABA Therapy contact Positive Reinforcement today. Servicing North Virginia, West Virginia. Now providing ABA Therapy in Richmond Virginia.