Thanksgiving is the perfect time to show our gratitude for those who fill our hearts with love and to reflect on the life experiences that shaped us into who we are. It’s also an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends and unwind with a helping (or two) of our favorite holiday dishes.

In this edition of E-Speaks, you’ll hear about the holiday traditions of one autistic mom and her daughter, who is also on the spectrum, and learn why they are more thankful than ever this year. You’ll also get helpful tips on how to plan an autism-friendly Thanksgiving, score travel tips to ensure a stress-free holiday and hear a few simple ways you can make your holiday meals easier for your food-sensitive autistic family members.

In my own words: What I’m thankful for this holiday season

Tania, 30, and her daughter Valeria, 3, were diagnosed with autism on the same day last summer. It was a day that would provide answers to the many questions Tania struggled with her entire life and set her daughter on a path of intervention services that will hopefully help her to reach her full potential. In this blog, read more about this family’s autism journey and all they have to be thankful for this year.

Tips to make your Thanksgiving autism-friendly

Holidays like Thanksgiving can be stressful for people with autism and their families. The change in routine, food and surroundings can feel overwhelming for those who struggle with sensory challenges and social anxiety. In this blog post, behavioral expert Arianna Esposito and self-advocate Anne Grego-Nagel share how families can make their Thanksgiving festivities more inclusive for their loved ones with autism.

Tackling travel for the holidays

Is your family traveling for Thanksgiving? While travel can be a scary experience for some autistic people, preparing ahead of time can help you stay cool and collected. View a list of our top travel tips to help you get ready for air travel and navigate any potential challenges.

Guide to coping with food sensitivities

Many people with autism have sensory differences that make eating certain foods a challenge. Some may be unwilling to try new foods, while others have rituals around their eating habits. In this Guide to Exploring Feeding Behavior in Autism, you can learn some tips to make your Thanksgiving meal a little easier for your autistic family members.

Santa Claus is coming to town!

This holiday season, families looking for a sensory-friendly Christmas experience can enjoy the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa! In partnership with Cherry Hill Programs, Autism Speaks will offer 500 sensory-friendly events in hundreds of caring locations across the U.S. Click here for more information about upcoming events and to book your reservation.

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