“We are going to see Santa in a couple of weeks. What do you think you will ask for Christmas?”
“I don’t want to ask him for anything. I want to write it down and just hand him the paper and leave,” Declan answered.
“Oh. Are you afraid of Santa?” That would be new, I thought.
“I DON’T WANT TO TALK TO HIM. I WANT TO TELL HIM WHAT I WANT ON PAPER!”
“Okay, okay – that’s fine. What is it you are going to write down?”
“I would like a giant stuffed Orca.”
The dog is going to love that gift, I thought.
“Okay. Is there anything else?”
“You can only ask Santa for one thing.”
“True, but I want to give you a Christmas present too. What can I give you?”
“I don’t know,” Declan answered and trotted off to return to his trampoline and device for a good bounce.
‘Tis the season!
As the kids get older, my husband and I have figured one thing to be true.
Trying to come up with gift ideas is getting harder and harder.
The older kids are not into toys. Things they enjoy now are electronically oriented. And usually – EXPENSIVE.
This year, we know Declan would like Santa to give him a giant stuffed Orca. That’s it. My husband and I are left brainstorming ideas.
Books? New device? A new board game? I’m not sure yet, but as the wheels turn I realize it is a good idea to keep in mind there are items that could be purchased to help with his sensory needs.
And now, our yearly trip to see Santa appears to be a new stress for Declan. As I read below, maybe bringing his fidget toy as a “safe object” would help him through the process?
Autism Parenting Magazine provided me this infographic on the subject. If you click on it, you will be taken to the Autism Parenting Magazine’s blog for more information on the subject. Check it out!
Great thoughtful post.
Thank you!
Great list! I have the tie me and my son has no interest in it. He’s into LEGO building and drawing. He can go through loads of paper just drawing and drawing away.
Oh my gosh, yes! I just had to get another whole ream of paper for pictures my son has started drawing of different sea creatures he likes and extreme weather. There is paper everywhere 🙂
Haha! Yes! Papers everywhere, there is no such thing as erasing, just grabs another paper and starts over! 😂
Declan wanting to write his list…he’s got blogger blood in those veins! 😀
Hahaha! I think you may be right! May have to get him set up with a blog of his own 🙂
You never know! Wouldn’t the irony be beautiful!
That is great. A giant stuffed Orca.
It’s here! Hidden in a closet (taking up a lot of space 🙂 )
I try to do unpredictable fun stuff. Adult kids now but still fun. Everyone including hubby is getting a giant bean bag foot. All different colors. A foot fight will probably break out.
Nice!