Autism and Holidays

Autism and Holidays

Inside: As the holiday season approaches, for those of us with autistic children, we may go into hibernation mode. Or we may not. It really all depends. Whatever the case may be, here are some tips from a certified Occupational Therapist for helping autistic children during the holidays.  The holidays are swiftly approaching and for most of us, this is the most wonderful time of the year. For me, growing up, I always loved this time of the year. As a mom, I usually love this time of the year. I say usually because for Sweet B, this time of the year can be a nightmare. For example, if you have to go anywhere- traveling can be downright disastrous. And if you are traveling, do check…

Christmas Themed Prewriting and Letter Hunt for Toddlers

Christmas Themed Prewriting and Letter Hunt for Toddlers

We are getting really excited about Christmas! Squeaker turned 3 on December 5th but we’ve been in Christmas mode for awhile now. This is the first year that she’s really starting to understand what’s going on. We are using this time to learn more about Jesus Christ as well as Santa Claus. Sometimes I do have to wonder how much of this really sticks with her but she surprises me daily! We’re also using this time of the year to work on preschool readiness skills. We work on this all year round of course, but I love making holiday themed worksheets for her as well. I want to also let you know that going forward, all of my printables will be available through my new…

How to Make Peppermint Christmas Cracker Candy

How to Make Peppermint Christmas Cracker Candy

When it comes to Christmas shopping and gifting, I always like to have something extra on hand to give to guests. Or to give to local community members or neighbors. Whatever the case may be, it could be something small or it could be something homemade. I prefer homemade because I think it just gives that extra touch. This year, I will be gifting peppermint Christmas cracker candy. Package your peppermint Christmas cracker candy in a Rubbermaid TakeAlongs for easy gift giving. Thank you to Rubbermaid for partnering with us to bring you this post. I was actually surprised at how easy this was to make. I’d always been under the impression that the process was complicated. That, and every time I’ve attempted to make…

How to Introduce Toddlers to Christ at Christmas

How to Introduce Toddlers to Christ at Christmas

We are trying to raise Squeaker in a Christian faith but also with an appreciation and awareness for all religions. However, because she is baptized, Christianity is what she will primarily know. One of the major ways that I want to introduce her to Christ and our faith, is during Advent and Christmas. This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #JoinTheSearch #CollectiveBias But how do I go about this? Where do I start? Is there protocol for how to introduce toddlers to Christ at Christmas? Or is it up to parents? Should Christians really introduce Christ at Christmas? I don’t want to take away the magic or the fun that surrounds Christmas. I also don’t…

How to Introduce Your Child to the Idea of Santa Claus

How to Introduce Your Child to the Idea of Santa Claus

Squeaker was supposed to be a Christmas baby. And by that, I mean her due-date was actually December 23rd. She chose to make her arrival a little bit early by coming on December 5th instead. Last year, 2015, however was the first year that she was really introduced to the concept of Santa Claus. As you can see here, she really wasn’t impressed: This year, we are making more of an effort to introduce the idea of Santa Claus as a part of exploring Christmas. I’m also trying to be proactive about balancing Christmas and learning about various traditions around the world. I don’t want Santa Claus to be the primary focus of our Christmas celebration and traditions. But I also want Squeaker to understand…

25+ Disney Christmas Movies to Have Your Own Christmas Countdown

25+ Disney Christmas Movies to Have Your Own Christmas Countdown

I have probably been in a Christmas frame of mind since the beginning of October. To be honest with you, if I could celebrate something Christmasy every day? I just might do it. I love this time of the year and I’m really looking forward to introducing Squeaker to Christmas. For us that unfolds in many ways. From books, to cultural celebrations, to crafts, to baking cookies. And of course, with watching Christmas movies. One of my favorite Christmas movies is A Christmas Carol so I have several adaptations of that. Christmas also isn’t quite complete without at least one viewing of the Nutcracker ballet. Maybe one year, Squeaker and I can attend in person. I also look forward to seeing what Disney will decide…