The holidays have a way of putting every parent into performance mode- timelines, expectations, schedules, and the pressure to “show up” in a way that feels polished. And if you’re raising a neurodivergent child, that pressure can multiply in quiet ways that most people never see.

So this year, ahead of offering another list of strategies for managing sensory overload or navigating extended family gatherings, we want to take a step back. A breath. A pause in the holiday haze.

Because sometimes the most meaningful progress your child makes isn’t loud enough for a room full of relatives to notice.
Sometimes it’s small. Gentle. Almost unremarkable-unless you’re the one who’s been watching closely.

And those moments are worth celebrating.

Thanksgiving can be unpredictable-new people, new routines, loud environments, changed schedules.

If your child (or you) used a coping strategy you’ve been practicing…
If your child (or you) accepted help instead of escalating…

That’s progress, not luck.

New communication, even if it was brief or imperfect.
A gesture.
A word approximation.
A pointed finger.
A picture card handed over at the dinner table.
Washing hands without prompting.
Zipping their coat.
Walking into a family gathering without needing to be carried.

These small steps are often the foundations that lead to big milestones later.

In the quiet after the holidays, reflection matters more than perfection.

The truth is, even the most loving families sometimes don’t see the work it takes to get through the holidays.

But you see it.
Your child feels it.
And progress is happening-even if it doesn’t look like what others expect.

In the days after Thanksgiving, when routines start to settle again (for a moment) and the noise quiets down, this is your chance to look back with softness:

• What did my child handle better this year than last?

• What small skills showed up unexpectedly?

• Where did I see them try-even if the outcome wasn’t perfect?

• Where did I show up with more confidence, patience, or flexibility as a parent?

Parenting a neurodivergent child requires a level of resilience, advocacy, and emotional bandwidth that the world doesn’t always acknowledge. The progress you’re making as a family together is real.

Gratitude isn’t always tied to picture-perfect moments. It’s tied to growth, effort, courage, and presence.

It looks like:

• A smoother transition.

• A new word.

• A deeper breath.

• One more bite.

• A shorter recovery.

• A calmer goodbye.

• A brave hello.

Growth is rarely dramatic.
But it is always worth recognizing.
We see the work you’re doing.
We honor the progress your family is making.
And we are grateful, deeply, to be part of your journey.

About the Author:

Karley Marsden is the VP of Marketing and Business Development at Spectrum of Hope, where she’s dedicated to helping families find clarity, confidence, and connection on their autism journey. With 20 years of experience in behavioral health and marketing, Karley blends strategy with heart to ensure families feel seen, supported, and empowered.