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Christmas break in an autism house....


    I think all parents can relate to the headaches and chaos that lead up to Christmas. Christmas parties, programs, shopping, baking, eating, decorating, wrapping...the list goes on and on! All this creates an environment where kids can't possibly function without stepping on an already frayed mommy nerve. 
    We make a conscious effort everyday leading up to Christmas to slow down and reflect on the reason for the season. But I would be lying to say it's all jingle bells and mistletoe at my house for the holidays. See on top of all the stuff I mentioned above we have melt downs over changed routines. This year that included tackling the Christmas tree. To be fair, trees are supposed to be outside. Anxiety over family gatherings with lots of people in little spaces. Tummy trouble because despite the delicious holiday feast present at every gathering, Alden will live on cookies and dinner rolls. Sensory issues stopping him from tearing through wrapping paper and finally, abandoning all of his new gifts to sit in the corner and play on his Ipad.
    Watching the light in our nuerotypical child's eyes as he enjoys Christmas, the way so many other children and families do, is absolutely magical. The trick is finding the magic in the way Alden enjoy's Christmas. We seem to have found a way to balance all the festivities and Aldens needs. Thankfully we have an incredibly supportive family who have learned and grown through this journey with us. So we pack a bag of Alden preferred foods and NEVER forget the Ipad charger. Maybe take an impromptu shower in the middle of a family gathering. Thanks Jeremy and Brandy ;-) We have learned to laugh off his indifference to some gifts and marvel at him finally ripping through that wrapping paper by himself.
     Us autism moms love our children dearly but our children THRIVE on routine. So when Christmas break is over we happily send them back to school. That used to make me feel horrible but be honest, sending your kids back to school is bittersweet for you too. I think we ALL do better on a regular routine. That's way so many of us resist change!
   

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