If you have family and friends who don’t often see your child, but will on special occasions like holidays, they may not know the best way to interact with your child which can put everyone, including your child, in uncomfortable or stressful situations. Preparing everyone for the interaction can help to keep the visits enjoyable for all. 

First, think about your child. Starting them in treatment as soon as possible can help your child to address some of the behaviors that they struggle with which could help make them more confident and comfortable in unusual situations like a holiday party. You can also use a social story to help your child understand what the day will be like. Setting expectations can help your child process what the day will look like before the event itself. Check out this FREE Thanksgiving social story if you’re in search of one. 

Second, take time to process the diagnosis yourself. Try to remember that although a diagnosis may be difficult, you now have a tool to assist you in finding the correct supports for your child. Without a diagnosis, families might feel they are floundering, unsure which therapies and doctors are considered best practice. With a diagnosis, you now have a name to all of the questions. And while this doesn’t hold all the answers, it’s a great starting point. Understanding a diagnosis and having an idea of your path forward can make the adventure of raising a child with ASD less daunting. And being able to share with family and friends how they can possibly help along the way will give them actionable ways to support you, like reading a book you’ve found helpful or having a regular phone call where you can talk to them about your journey as an ASD parent. You’ll need a team throughout your journey and empowering others in your life with ways to step in and be helpful will be useful for everyone.