Imagine this: You’re a parent to a darling 6-year-old, Grace, who happens to be autistic. Large gatherings can be overwhelming for her, and you’ve managed to keep Thanksgiving small and intimate for the past few years. But this year, you’re hosting the big family celebration for the first time since Grace was a toddler. To ensure her comfort, you decide to lay down some ground rules for the family. Sounds reasonable, right? Well, not everyone thinks so. Let’s delve into this tale of Thanksgiving turbulence.
The Thanksgiving Invitation with a Twist

Setting the Stage for a Comfortable Celebration

The Rules that Ruffled Feathers

More Rules for a Peaceful Thanksgiving

The Final Rules and the Ensuing Backlash

The Family’s Furious Response

Hugs and Kisses: A Point of Contention

A Clarification Amidst the Chaos

The Question at the Heart of the Drama

A Mother’s Thanksgiving Rules Ignite a Family Firestorm
In a bid to ensure her autistic daughter’s comfort, a mother decides to set some ground rules for the upcoming family Thanksgiving celebration. From ‘don’t touch my kid’ to ‘respect her space’, these rules, while well-intentioned, have sparked a family feud. The relatives are upset, citing their kids’ excitement to play with Grace and her toys as a major reason for attending. Even the prospect of not being able to hug or kiss Grace has caused a stir. Amidst the backlash, the mother clarifies her stance, but the question remains – was she right in setting these rules? Let’s see what the internet thinks of this situation…
Definite NTA. Family feud over Thanksgiving rules sparks controversy

NTA: Setting boundaries for daughter’s toys and personal space

Concerned about pushback and potential chaos during Thanksgiving gathering

NTA. Reasonable rules for daughter’s toys. Family may break them

NTA. Autistic child needs special accommodations. Family should respect boundaries.

NTA sets boundaries for child’s enjoyment, sparks controversy

Engagingly debating the confrontational tone in protecting Grace at Thanksgiving

Autistic nephew’s safety prioritized at Thanksgiving dinner

Preparing our children for the path, not preparing the path for them

Protecting your child’s well-being should never be controversial

Family already knows daughter, why the need for rules?

Mild ESH. Polite communication could have avoided unnecessary conflict.

NTA. Thoughtful way to protect your child’s boundaries

Commenter supports Thanksgiving rules but has reservations about special needs

Setting rules as a host is okay! Enjoy Thanksgiving

Being assertive can be effective in setting personal boundaries

Family pressures host to accommodate daughter’s needs and cousins

NTA… Setting clear expectations can help avoid Thanksgiving drama

Clear rules: Before or after? The RSVP dilemma

NTA, but hosting may upset your child

Commenter questions wording of post, replies say it was nicer.

Protecting your kid’s comfort: NTA, do what’s right

Family feud sparks controversy over Thanksgiving rules, NTA stands strong
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Putting your child’s safety first

NTA: It’s a two-way street, enjoy yourself!

NTA. Set your own rules and host your own party!

Defending boundaries: NTA mom sparks controversy over Thanksgiving rules

NTA, parents prioritize daughter’s needs over unsupportive extended family

NTA. Family Thanksgiving rules spark debate over playroom access
