Purim, Passover, and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Recognizing and Dealing with the Challenges

The Jewish holiday of Purim starts next week; a month later, Passover will arrive. These holidays can be very stressful for children and adolescents who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and for their families. Observance of these holidays can impose social, sensory, and other demands that trigger the specific challenges created by the ASD. Parents whose children and adolescents receive special education services to address ASD-related challenges may be able to advocate for additional support from school and home-based providers. Changes in Routine Many families observe the holiday of Purim by dressing in costumes, attending their synagogues in the evening…  Read in browser »