Thanksgiving Tips for Kids With Autism: ABA Friendly Ideas for a Calm and Joyful Holiday in Central Florida.

Thanksgiving is a time to come together, share a meal, and express gratitude. But for many children with autism, this holiday can feel overwhelming due to changes in routine, new foods, unfamiliar social situations, and busy environments.

At ABLE, we want every family to feel supported during the season. Below are helpful ABA based strategies and simple Thanksgiving activities that keep learning going while helping your child feel comfortable, confident, and included.

ABA Strategies for a Successful Thanksgiving

1. Prepare with Visual Schedules

Show your child what the day will look like. Include simple steps such as getting dressed, traveling, eating, and playtime.

ABA Tips: Visual schedules help reduce anxiety and make transitions easier.

2. Practice New Social Situations

Role play greetings like “Happy Thanksgiving” or “Can I have some turkey please?”

ABA Tip: Practicing ahead of time builds confidence and reduces stress during real interactions.

3. Create a Sensory Friendly Space

Choose a quiet room or corner where your child can take breaks. Add headphones, fidgets, or calming activities. Teaching children to ask for breaks is an important ABA skill that builds communication and independence.

4. Break Tasks Into Small Steps

Whether it is trying a new food or sitting at the table, use ABA techniques like task analysis and positive reinforcement.

ABA Tip: Celebrate every small success.

5. Keep Expectations Flexible

It is okay if your child eats familiar foods or needs extra breaks.

ABA Tip: Focus on progress, not perfection.

These tips can make Thanksgiving a smoother and more enjoyable experience for you, your kid and your relatives or visitors. 

Thanksgiving Activities for Kids With Autism (ABA Inspired)

1. Make a “Thankful Board”

Use pictures, drawings, or stickers to help your child express what they are thankful for. This strengthens communication and emotional awareness.

2. Simple Cooking Tasks

Let your child help pour, stir, or wash vegetables. These activities encourage fine motor skills, following directions, and building independence.

3. Turkey Craft With Visual Steps

Create a paper turkey using step by step picture instructions. This supports sequencing and attention skills.

4. Sensory Bin With Fall Items

Fill a bin with dried corn, leaves, pinecones, and small scoops. Sensory play helps with regulation and keeps kids engaged during busy parts of the day.

5. Gratitude Social Story

Create a short story explaining what Thanksgiving is and what your child can expect. Social stories prepare children for new environments and help reduce surprises.

You Are Not Alone This Season

Thanksgiving can be joyful and meaningful for families of children with autism, especially with the right supports in place. At ABLE, we are honored to help families create positive experiences while building lifelong skills.

Looking for ABA Therapy in Plant City, Tampa, or Brandon?

ABLE is now accepting new clients with no wait list at several locations.
We provide ABA Therapy in Plant City, Tampa, Lakeland, Clearwater and Brandon, and our experienced team includes Spanish speaking professionals.
We also accept most major insurance plans.

Let us help your child build confidence, communication, and independence.

Call us today: (863) 619 2809 Fill out our intake form or email us at: intake@applied-behavioral.com

“Every small step forward is a moment to be thankful for.”