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…
Here’s a short article, in which I tell the story of a recent Thanksgiving when I really 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.
I also wrote about self-care for parents last year around this time: 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.
Here are 3 self-care boosters for you:
Journal to self-love! My friend Danna’s Self-Love Journaling Mini-Course. This targeted course will help you think through things you’re struggling with, like self-doubt, so you can love yourself unapologetically, and walk away with skills to remember you’re not alone, you’re good enough, and you can always trust your inner knowing. That’s an affiliate link, which means if you grab it I get a commission, but you pay the same, so it's a win-win!
Personalized Yoga First Aid Session for Joint Pain. This limited 1-1 offer is just
$45$25 for a bit longer. I had to push these back because of my own injury, but now I'm ready to go! We will adjust the poses that hurt so you can get back on your mat safely. Together we'll customize your practice, so you can return to your mat with confidence.Finally, if you're feeling more forgetful than usual lately, join my free Brain Fog Busters 5 day challenge. The 5 fun movement breaks I'm sharing will help with defoggin' your noggin. 🧠
Remember that you’re not alone. I’m here for you.
What do you want support with in December?
Let me know in the comments: