A happier Thanksgiving for children and teens with special needs: 12 simple strategies
Resource Details
Thanksgiving was always my favorite holiday growing up. Then I had a child with special needs who couldn't stand the hustle and bustle at our home because of his sensory issues. Meltdowns were inevitable, along with the occasional eye-roll from relatives who thought Max was just being a "brat" and my own disappointment—I so wanted him to enjoy Thanksgiving. It took me a while to accept that even if Max was sitting by himself in the living room, zoning out with a video, that was his idea of a good time. I needed to let go.
These are the best strategies I've learned from experience, and other parents, for making Thanksgiving—and any holiday—happier for children with special needs.
Looking for more?
Search the full resource database.
DISCLAIMER: The information and resources listed on this site are for general informational and educational purposes only. They are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or medical advice, and are not meant to replace the advice or counsel of a qualified professional. The inclusion of any third-party resources or links does not imply endorsement or guarantee of any organization, program, service, information, or outcome. The information and resources do not constitute any medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Please consult your child’s physician or other trusted medical professional before making any medical care decisions for yourself or your child.
©2026 Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio. All Rights Reserved.
The following trademarks are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald House Logo, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.
Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio is recognized as a public charity under Internal Revenue Code section 509(a) and has 501(c)(3) status. Donations to Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio are deductible. Donors should consult their tax advisor for questions regarding deductibility. The Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio EIN is 34-1269123. A copy of the Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio determination letter is available upon request.
Looking for more?
Search the full resource database.
DISCLAIMER: The information and resources listed on this site are for general informational and educational purposes only. They are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or medical advice, and are not meant to replace the advice or counsel of a qualified professional. The inclusion of any third-party resources or links does not imply endorsement or guarantee of any organization, program, service, information, or outcome. The information and resources do not constitute any medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Please consult your child’s physician or other trusted medical professional before making any medical care decisions for yourself or your child.
©2026 Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio. All Rights Reserved.
The following trademarks are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald House Logo, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.
Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio is recognized as a public charity under Internal Revenue Code section 509(a) and has 501(c)(3) status. Donations to Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio are deductible. Donors should consult their tax advisor for questions regarding deductibility. The Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio EIN is 34-1269123. A copy of the Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio determination letter is available upon request.
Looking for more?
Search the full resource database.
DISCLAIMER: The information and resources listed on this site are for general informational and educational purposes only. They are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or medical advice, and are not meant to replace the advice or counsel of a qualified professional. The inclusion of any third-party resources or links does not imply endorsement or guarantee of any organization, program, service, information, or outcome. The information and resources do not constitute any medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Please consult your child’s physician or other trusted medical professional before making any medical care decisions for yourself or your child.
©2026 Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio. All Rights Reserved.
The following trademarks are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald House Logo, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.
Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio is recognized as a public charity under Internal Revenue Code section 509(a) and has 501(c)(3) status. Donations to Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio are deductible. Donors should consult their tax advisor for questions regarding deductibility. The Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio EIN is 34-1269123. A copy of the Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio determination letter is available upon request.