Support for Atypical Kids Doesn’t Stop During the Holidays
I'm proactively letting out a sigh of relief, because I know I'm not alone in the struggle.
Thank you for being part of this community!
Since having my atypical kid, holidays have been different.
Not worse; incredibly rewarding and full… but different. More stressful. It has helped so much to have other parents to share the experience with.
Here are a few posts I thought you’d enjoy…
During a recent Thanksgiving, I turned my stress around by planning ahead, clarifying expectations, and setting clear and loving boundaries:
Can Your Family Enjoy Thanksgiving Despite Sensory Overload? Support for atypical kids doesn’t stop on holidays.
There are some helpful ideas to prepare for (and stay present during) any holiday where there might be unrealistic expectations.
Here’s something from the article that helps me get through any stressful day:
Notice what is happening.
Notice any resistance to what’s happening.
If possible, relax that resistance.
Let out a sigh of relief.
Parenting With Self-Compassion is Radical and Brave, Especially During the Holidays: 5 journaling prompts to help you avoid "shiny object syndrome" and stay centered.
If you want to carry your responsibilities with more grace and joy,
the key is to care for yourself before, or at least alongside, everyone else…
Parenting with self-compassion is activism… It is a most unselfish act. Our kids can’t learn what they can’t see, so if they see us witnessing our own struggles and shining kindness on ourselves, they will know that it is possible, and even ordinary, to treat themselves with love.