🧠 AI Summary:
Thanksgiving is meant to bring families together — but for parents of children with autism, the noise, smells, and changes in routine can feel overwhelming. This blog offers ABA-based strategies to help families create a calm, joyful Thanksgiving experience for their child. From sensory planning and flexible routines to teaching communication tools, it helps parents approach the holidays with confidence, compassion, and gratitude.
Introduction: When Gratitude Meets Sensitivity
As Thanksgiving approaches, most families picture full tables, laughter, and busy kitchens. But for many parents of children with autism, that excitement can come with worry.
You might be wondering:
💭 “How will my child handle all the noise and food?”
💭 “What if they feel overwhelmed or want to leave early?”
💭 “How can we make the day meaningful without meltdowns?”
At On Target ABA, we know holidays can feel tricky — but with preparation, compassion, and simple ABA strategies, Thanksgiving can become a time of joy for your child and your whole family.
1️⃣ Prepare Early with Predictability
Children with autism thrive on structure. You can help them feel secure by previewing what will happen during Thanksgiving week:
- Use a visual schedule showing each part of the day.
- Read a short social story about Thanksgiving or family gatherings.
- Talk about what foods will be served and where you’ll eat.
🗣️ “First we drive to Grandma’s. Then we eat turkey. Then we play outside.”
These clear, predictable steps make the unknown feel familiar.
2️⃣ Choose Comfort Over Perfection
It’s okay if your Thanksgiving looks different from someone else’s. 💙
If your child prefers a quiet space during mealtime, let them take breaks.
If they want chicken nuggets instead of turkey — that’s perfectly fine!
ABA therapy teaches us to meet children where they are, not where tradition says they should be. Focus on connection, not conformity.
Remember: A peaceful, happy child is far more important than a picture-perfect dinner.
3️⃣ Use Positive Reinforcement
During busy holidays, it’s easy to focus on what’s challenging — but praise works wonders.
💬 “You sat with us for five minutes — great job!”
💬 “I love how you shared your toy with your cousin!”
Positive reinforcement helps children understand what behaviors are expected while building confidence and joy.
If needed, bring small reinforcers — like favorite snacks or toys — for calm moments between activities.
4️⃣ Plan for Sensory Comfort
Thanksgiving is full of new sights, sounds, and smells — sometimes too many at once.
Help your child stay regulated by:
- Bringing noise-canceling headphones 🎧
- Allowing breaks in a quiet room 🌙
- Packing familiar snacks 🍎
- Dressing in comfy, familiar clothes 👕
Even small changes, like dimming lights or lowering music, can make a big difference in comfort.
5️⃣ Involve Your Child in the Celebration
Many children enjoy Thanksgiving more when they feel included.
Try small, meaningful roles like:
- Placing napkins on the table
- Stirring mashed potatoes
- Passing dessert plates
- Saying “thank you” to family members
These simple actions create pride, purpose, and social practice — key goals in ABA therapy.
6️⃣ Practice Social Skills Beforehand
If your child gets nervous around extended family, use ABA-based role-play before the big day:
- Practice greetings (“Hi, Grandma!” 👋)
- Teach how to ask for a break (“Can I go to my quiet spot?”)
- Rehearse sharing or turn-taking through play
When children know what to expect, they walk into family gatherings with more confidence — and less anxiety.
7️⃣ Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Thanksgiving isn’t about having a flawless day — it’s about gratitude. 🌟
Be proud of every success, no matter how small.
Maybe your child tolerated new food, played longer than expected, or just smiled through a busy day. That’s progress worth celebrating.
At On Target ABA, we believe every step forward deserves recognition.
Closing: Gratitude in Every Moment
This Thanksgiving, remember that your child is learning and growing every day — and that love and patience are the heart of every success.
From all of us at On Target ABA, we’re thankful for the families who trust us to be part of their journey. 💙