As the air turns crisp and the leaves blanket the ground in vibrant hues, Thanksgiving is just around the corner. This cherished holiday invites us to slow down, gather with loved ones, and appreciate all that we have. While it’s traditionally associated with feasts and family gatherings, Thanksgiving can also be a time to reflect on inclusion, accessibility, and how we can ensure that everyone feels welcomed at the table.
The Essence of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving, at its core, is about gratitude. It’s a time to pause and reflect on the people, moments, and milestones that have shaped our lives over the past year. It’s also an opportunity to share those feelings with others, creating a sense of warmth and connection. But beyond gratitude, Thanksgiving has a broader meaning—it’s a chance to foster an inclusive spirit, ensuring everyone feels valued, celebrated, and heard.
Celebrating Thanksgiving with a Twist
Thanksgiving traditions vary widely from family to family, and each one adds its own special touch. Some families enjoy a large feast complete with turkey and all the fixings, while others opt for a simpler gathering focused on meaningful conversations. Whether you’re cooking a massive meal or sharing takeout, the essence of the holiday remains the same—togetherness and appreciation.
For families with disabled members, Thanksgiving can also be a chance to create accessible and sensory-friendly celebrations. It’s an opportunity to reimagine traditions that are not only fun but also welcoming to everyone. It could mean adjusting mealtime to accommodate different needs, incorporating activities that are inclusive, or simply having quiet spaces available for those who need them.
Making the Table Accessible for All
Accessibility at the Thanksgiving table goes beyond ramps or wide doorways. It’s about creating an environment where every guest can comfortably participate. Here are some ways to foster an inclusive celebration:
- Consider Dietary Needs: It’s important to ensure that the menu includes options for everyone, whether it’s gluten-free, vegetarian, or pureed foods. If you’re unsure about what to serve, ask your guests ahead of time. This small gesture can make a world of difference and shows that you care about their comfort.
- Create a Relaxing Atmosphere: For some, Thanksgiving can be overwhelming, especially with large gatherings, new people, and lots of noise. Consider setting up a quiet corner with books, sensory toys, or noise-canceling headphones to provide a break from the festivities.
- Be Mindful of Seating Arrangements: Think about wheelchair accessibility, sensory-friendly seating, and seating arrangements that allow guests to easily interact with one another. Round tables often work better for conversation, and movable chairs make it easier to accommodate different seating preferences.
Engaging Everyone in Gratitude
Gratitude is at the heart of Thanksgiving, and there are many creative ways to encourage everyone to share what they’re grateful for:
- Gratitude Jar: As guests arrive, ask them to write down something they’re grateful for and place it in a jar. During dinner, pass the jar around and take turns reading the messages. It’s a wonderful way to start meaningful conversations and foster connection.
- Thanksgiving Tree: Set up a small tree with paper leaves and markers. Throughout the day, invite everyone to add a leaf with a note of gratitude. This visual representation of thanks can be a beautiful reminder of the day’s purpose.
- Verbal Acknowledgment: During the meal, go around the table and encourage everyone to share one thing they’re thankful for this year. It can be as simple as a warm hug from a friend or as big as a personal milestone.
Inclusive Activities for the Whole Family
Thanksgiving is about more than just the meal—it’s also a day filled with games, activities, and laughter. But for some, traditional activities can present barriers. Consider these inclusive options that encourage everyone to participate:
- Adaptive Board Games: Look for board games that are easy to adapt. Consider using larger game pieces, simpler instructions, or creating teams to support those who need assistance. This way, everyone can join the fun, regardless of their abilities.
- Sensory-Friendly Crafts: Crafts can be a great way to engage kids and adults alike. Offer materials like soft felt, pom-poms, and colorful paper to create Thanksgiving-themed crafts. Focus on crafts that don’t require intricate movements, making them more accessible for all.
- Storytelling Time: Sharing stories around the fireplace or the dinner table can be a heartwarming activity. Encourage everyone to share a favorite Thanksgiving memory or a story of kindness from the past year.
Incorporating Assistive Technology in Celebrations
As an accessibility consultant and advocate for assistive technology, I believe that AT can enhance any experience, including holiday celebrations. Here are some simple ways to integrate assistive technology into Thanksgiving:
- Communication Devices: For those who use AAC devices, ensure their devices are fully charged and within reach during the celebration. Consider adding Thanksgiving-themed vocabulary to make it easier for them to join the conversation.
- Visual Schedules: Use visual schedules to help outline the day’s events, from mealtime to activities. This can help ease anxiety and offer a sense of predictability for those who thrive on routine.
- Smart Home Devices: Smart home technology, like voice-activated lights and smart thermostats, can make the environment more comfortable for guests with mobility or sensory needs.
Creating New Traditions
Thanksgiving traditions often hold a special place in our hearts, but creating new traditions that embrace inclusion and diversity can be just as meaningful. Here are some ideas:
- Potluck-Style Dinner: Invite each guest to bring a dish that’s meaningful to them. Not only does this ease the burden on the host, but it also encourages cultural diversity at the table. It’s a chance to learn about each other’s backgrounds and appreciate different culinary traditions.
- Inclusive Volunteering: If your family enjoys giving back on Thanksgiving, look for volunteer opportunities that are inclusive. Consider virtual volunteering, preparing meal kits for homebound individuals, or supporting disability-focused organizations.
- Mindful Gratitude Walk: After the meal, take a leisurely gratitude walk with loved ones. Make it accessible for all by choosing a path that’s wheelchair-friendly. Use the walk to share memories or simply enjoy the changing season.
Acknowledging the Complex History
While Thanksgiving is often seen as a time of joy and unity, it’s also essential to acknowledge its complex history. The holiday’s origins are tied to interactions between Indigenous peoples and early settlers, which were marked by both cooperation and conflict. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s important to honor Indigenous communities by learning more about their history and ongoing contributions.
Consider integrating this aspect into your celebration:
- Start with Land Acknowledgment: Before the meal, take a moment to acknowledge the Indigenous people who originally inhabited the land where you are celebrating. It’s a simple yet powerful way to honor their history and culture.
- Educational Resources: Use the holiday as an opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures and history. Consider sharing resources with guests or incorporating educational stories into your family’s Thanksgiving traditions.
- Support Indigenous Businesses: If possible, source your ingredients from Indigenous-owned farms or buy from Indigenous artisans. It’s a small but meaningful way to contribute to the community.
Finding Gratitude in the Everyday
As Thanksgiving wraps up, it’s easy to fall back into the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But the spirit of gratitude doesn’t have to be limited to one day. Carrying an attitude of thankfulness into the everyday moments can transform our perspective. Here are a few ways to maintain that feeling of gratitude throughout the year:
- Daily Gratitude Journal: Take a moment each day to jot down something you’re grateful for. It could be as simple as a kind word from a friend, a beautiful sunrise, or a moment of peace.
- Acts of Kindness: Whether it’s holding the door open for someone, donating to a cause you care about, or simply offering a smile, acts of kindness are an everyday way to share the spirit of Thanksgiving.
- Thank You Notes: Make it a habit to write short notes of appreciation to those who make a difference in your life. Whether it’s a teacher, a caregiver, or a friend, a handwritten note can brighten anyone’s day.
Thanksgiving: More Than a Holiday
At its best, Thanksgiving is more than a day of indulgence—it’s a reminder of the importance of gratitude, inclusion, and connection. It’s a time to pause, appreciate the present, and create meaningful memories with the people we love. Whether you’re gathering with family, friends, or chosen family, the day can be a celebration of acceptance, warmth, and community.
Thanksgiving is not just about the food; it’s about making everyone feel welcome, heard, and valued. As we celebrate this special day, let’s embrace the opportunity to foster a sense of inclusion and gratitude that lasts well beyond the holiday season.
Until next Monday, stay connected and keep advocating!