Season of Thanks
Thanksgiving is a memorable time for families to come together and express gratitude. For families with children on the autism spectrum, it can present unique challenges. This blog post offers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies that can be used to ensure a successful and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday for children with autism and their families.
Food Selectivity: Many individuals with autism have specific food preferences or aversions. To accommodate this, consider preparing familiar foods your child enjoys. Include your child in the meal prep process and respect their food choices.
Visual Supports: Visual supports helps individuals process information easier and more quickly. Create a visual schedule or social story to help your child understand the Thanksgiving holiday plan. This can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of structure and stability.
Reinforcement: Kids love praise and recognition! Utilize reinforcement principles to encourage positive prosocial behavior during the Thanksgiving holiday.
Modeling: Parents and caregivers are children’s first teachers. Model the behavior you want to see from your child and they will follow you.
Sensory-Friendly Environment: Holidays are fun and exciting but can be overstimulating and unstructured. Consider environmental changes that promote a sensory-friendly environment. For example, reduce noise levels, dim lighting in the home, and offer sensory and self-regulation items to your child. Providing a safe space or calming area for your child to take breaks can also be helpful.
If there are specific skills you’d like to address with your child over the holidays, consult with your clinical team on ways they can support! Happy Thanksgiving!
