— A Holiday Pep Talk

If you’ve ever dreaded the question “What does he want for Christmas?” this episode is for you.
In Episode 249 of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon sits down for a heartfelt, honest conversation about gift-giving when your autistic child doesn’t like toys, doesn’t care about unwrapping presents, or doesn’t connect with gifts the way the world expects.

In this episode, Shannon shares:— Why your child isn’t “missing out”— Why practical gifts absolutely count— The freedom in skipping wrapping paper— How to talk to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings— Real-life scenarios you’ll face—and how to handle them— How to release the guilt and drop the pressure to have a “typical” holiday— What embracing YOUR version of Christmas can look and feel like

If the holidays bring up stress, comparison, or worry that you’re “doing it wrong,” this episode will bring relief and perspective. Your family’s Christmas gets to look the way you need it to—and yes, Mama, that is more than enough.

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We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠⁠
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Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠⁠129. Getting a Grip on Escalating Behaviors⁠⁠

⁠⁠124. What to Do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, host Shannon Urquiola continues her holiday series with a conversation every autism parent needs before the real chaos hits—what to do after you completely lose your lane.

Because no matter how hard you work on staying calm, holding boundaries, and choosing your lane… there will still be moments where you snap, shut down, or say somethingyou regret. Especially during the holidays.

Shannon also shares a behind-the-scenes update on writing her book and how revisiting the hardest moments of this journey has been both healing and really, really hard.

If even one idea from this episode helps you walk into the holidays with a little more grace for yourself and less pressure to “get it right,” that’s a win.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠133. Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence

212. When Progress Pauses; Regression 101

This week, we’re continuing our holiday series with a conversation that every autism mom needs this time of year — learning how to stay in your lane when everything around you feels like chaos.

In this episode, Shannon shares real-life holiday scenarios that trigger overwhelm — the change in school routines, sensory overload, family expectations, and well-meaning relatives who just don’t get it — and walks you through practical ways to protect your peace and let go of what was never yours to control.

You’ll learn how to:

This season isn’t about doing it all — it’s about knowing what’s yours to hold and what you can release.
You’ll walk away with more peace, confidence, and clarity to navigate the holidays your way.

Plus, Shannon shares exciting news about her upcoming book — Loving Through The Unexpected: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children.

Tune in for encouragement, strategies, and the reminder that you’re stronger than you think. 💙

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Want more support from a community of moms who truly get it? Check out our private membership at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com for ongoing guidance, connection, and exclusive resources!

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time

201. Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back