The holidays can be a magical time, but for us who are parenting a child on the spectrum, there is often additional pressure from so many different directions.  We all likely have family members who don’t understand, right?

In this episode, I am going to focus on giving you permission to do the Holidays however it works for you and your family. There are no rules… the holidays can be whatever you want them to be and whatever is best for your child and you. You don’t have to say yes. You don’t have to go.

I believe that as their parent, it is our job to control the small things that we do have control over so when the things that we can’t control happen it makes it easier for them to deal with.

What if you decide ahead of time that your child is counting on you to set boundaries that help them feel safe what if you decide to make the holidays about what they can do right now, at this moment? You cannot control what other people in your family think about your decisions and it’s important that you don’t create more stories in your head about what they do or don’t think. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. 

Sometimes, you might choose to tell people what to expect. You aren’t asking for approval or disapproval, you are just giving them insight into what they might expect, and in doing so, let them know that it is ok, you know how to handle it and it is no big deal.

Think about what your expectations are and whether or not they are realistic and I encourage you to question if they are REALLY that important. Is it that important to make them be in the picture?  This journey is different, it isn’t bad, it’s just different, and accepting life as it is right now in this moment is the best thing that you can do for your child or your children and for you.  

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, becoming Not Your Average Autism Mom is your answer.  Is the educational journey overwhelming and confusing for you?  Our member portal has an array of training and resources with everything you need to know about Special Education and you can join LIVE ZOOM calls with an Advocate to get any of your specific questions answered.  Maybe you are feeling alone on your journey or maybe you are looking for other moms to connect with in a PRIVATE community who understand your day-to-day challenges, be sure that you check out ALL THE BENEFITS available for you when you BECOME Not Your Average Autism Mom.

www.notyouraverageautismmom.com 

Additional Resources:

Episode 100. Lessons I have Learned Along our Journey