All parents of special needs children, no matter how old they are, know that the holidays present extra challenges. Even children and adults who love the holidays can be overwhelmed by the festivities. Add in families that don’t fully understand the limitations your special needs family may have in participating in family traditions, and it’s easy to let the holiday stress be your focus instead of the holiday fun. My wish to you this season is to recognize that more people are behind you than you know, and to remember that every family is unique and all traditions, even non-traditions, are valid.
And in that spirit, I share with you my 24yo son’s photo with Santa, taken yesterday at the mall. Dylan loves Santa, but sitting with him in the middle of a busy mall in front of flashing lights was a little more than he could handle. Fortunately, Santa looks more amused than annoyed! 
Share your own favorite holiday photos below.