Thread by @AspirationAutie

Tips to make the #holidayseason easier for #autistic people and things to keep in mind. A thread by someone on the #Autism spectrum:

1. Ease up on the bright/flashing LED lights, loud; and motion activated decorations. They can be extremely overwhelming, if not outright painful.

2. Be understanding of social boundaries. #Holiday parties can be extremely overwhelming for people on the #autism spectrum due to sheer amount of people, "masking," and small talk required.

Fellow #autistic people, you're not bad for saying "no" to events you can't handle.

3. Gift giving can be a weird experience for #autistic people. My #autism makes me a great gift giver, because I remember niche facts about a person and build a gift around it, but I'm extremely awkward accepting #holiday gifts. I often show excitement rather than say "thank you"

3, continued: Some #autistic people may be outright uncomfortable accepting a gift because it may feel transactional, or on the flip side, may not think to get a gift as per the societal convention of giving gifts to express affection. #Autism affects social processing.

4. If we chose not to partake in your #holiday meal; it's not a personal attack. Many #autistic people, myself included have major sensory issues that can make eating foods that aren't "safe" or familiar to us unbearable. For example, I cannot bring myself to eat mushrooms. Nope.

5. To those with little ones who are #autistic / have #autism: Please don't make them pose with Santa or the elves or even family members if they clearly do not want to. Boundaries and consent are important to teach your child. Their personal autonomy is important, too.

6. #Autistic adults, don't feel bad about not visiting or "celebrating" with family members that make you feel unworthy or that your #autism isn't valid. Chosen family is great. You're loved. Let yourself hyperfocus on your special interest instead and love yourselves.

7. #Christmas specific, but #autistic people may not get the Santa thing at all, or may be into it longer than what is "acceptable". Who cares? To each their own. I believed in Santa until age... 10 and I had to be told. I believed in Santa longer than I've known I have #autism.

8. Many #autistic people have a strong sense of justice, and many of us do experience #empathy. #Holiday ideas like #volunteering or doing up food bank donations can be a really nice way to make memories without having to experience the sensory overload of a parade or something.

9. Regardless if you are on the #autism spectrum or not, it's okay to acknowledge that the #holiday season is really stressful! Even non #autistic people get overwhelmed this time of year! #SelfCare is super important, such as "me time" and #stimming

10. Remember that you are loved. That you are important. That you survived the year. That you're going to be okay.

Facebook: facebook.com/AspirationalAu…

@AutismNS @AutisticsAloud @AutismCanada @AutismONT @theandrewgurza