Happy Holidays from the Autism NOW Center
December 7, 2011 Prism Newsletter
By Tonia Ferguson
The year is quickly coming to an end, and it is time again to enjoy the holidays. 2011 was a good year for the Autism NOW Center, reaching over 1 million families, professionals, self-advocates, and the general public through our social media outlets. We are expecting 2012 to be even better.
As the holiday season approaches, we know it can sometimes be as difficult as it is wonderful. We seem to always have last-minute presents to buy or wrapping to do. But during the holidays and amidst all the busyness and chaos, I have learned to focus on the meaning of “family.”
Family traditions are a great way to keep families bonded and happy during this busy season. By taking some time to consciously start some traditions, you can shape future memories that will be filled with love, warmth, and laughter.
One of my favorite family traditions and one that my son, Jared, loves is attending a holiday play with lots of carols, singing, and dancing. The wonderful treasure of this type of event is that it does not matter if someone joins in on the carols and misses a couple of notes.
I hope that sharing Jared’s and my family tradition helps bring some of the spirit of the season to your family. I hope that you think about your favorite family traditions or a tradition that you would like to create for your family during this holiday season. Moreover, I hope that each and every one of you have happy celebrations with the ones that you love during this special time of the year.
Have a happy and healthy holiday and remember “You, Empowered!”
Tonia Ferguson is the Director of the Autism NOW Center.
