Making Thanksgiving More Comfortable for Autistic Children
OCTOBER 05, 2026
Written by Emma Randall, Surrey Place Summer Student
For many families, Thanksgiving is a time for catching up with extended family, spending hours cooking and enjoying many plates of comfort food. But for some, the holidays can feel overwhelming with loud noises, new foods, unfamiliar environments and changes to their usual routines.
To help make Thanksgiving more comfortable, here are some tips to help families prepare for and navigate the holiday.
In this article:
Prepare in Advance
Preparing in advance can be beneficial for both you and your child. Talk about what to expect, including where you will be going, who might be there, and what activities may take place. You can also practice parts of the experience ahead of time to help make changes to routine feel more familiar and manageable.
A New Environment
If someone else is hosting, speak with the host in advance about your child’s needs. Things like strong smells from foods and spices, loud conversations, or physical touch, such as hugs or pats on the back, maybe overwhelming for some. Talking with the host ahead of time can help plan for alternatives or create a more comfortable experience for everyone.
Safe Space Planning
Create a quiet, low-stimulation space where your child can self-regulate, or take breaks from the noise and activity. This could be a room or area with soft lighting and some of their favourite comfort items. Noise-cancelling headphones, a favourite stuffed animal, or sensory toys can also be helpful.
Break Time
Consider creating a signal with your child for them to let you know when they need a break from the festivities. This could be a hand signal, communication card, or a word they can use; to let you know they need some time away or need a sensory break.
Comfort Food
Having some of your child’s favourite foods on hand can help make the meal more comfortable. Pack foods you know your child enjoys, even if they are not traditional Thanksgiving foods! Having familiar options available means your child can still enjoy the meal and feel included without feeling pressured to eat unfamiliar foods.
Use Stories
Stories and picture-based books can be a helpful way to introduce your child to Thanksgiving and talk about what they can expect. You can also prepare fall-themed sensory activities for your child to enjoy during the weekend or on the way to someone else’s home. Some ideas include exploring pumpkin seeds, making fall-scented playdough, or painting with leaves.
Enjoying the Fall Long Weekend
The fall long weekend can be a great opportunity to enjoy sensory-friendly activities and explore the outdoors at your own pace. From sensory bins and scavenger hunts to walks through nature, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season together.
With the leaves changing, fall is a lovely time to go for a walk on a local trail. Cooler temperatures can make outdoor activities more comfortable, and choosing a quieter time of day may help reduce some of the sensory challenges that come with busy spaces.
Fall can also be an opportunity to explore new sights, smells and tastes. If your child is interested, you can introduce seasonal flavours such as pumpkin or apple in a low-pressure way. Visiting a café or restaurant with seasonal treats can also be a fun experience, especially when familiar foods are available alongside something new.
You can also explore fall-themed baking together. Rolling out dough, making applesauce or decorating cookies can make cooking a fun, hands-on activity. Pumpkin patches and fall festivals can offer other opportunities for exploration, including tractor rides and corn mazes. If these activities feel intimidating, consider starting small and giving your child plenty of time and space to explore at their own pace.
Every child experiences holidays and celebrations differently. With a little preparation and flexibility, families can find ways to make Thanksgiving a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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