HOMECOMING

Homecoming can be an exciting milestone for teenagers—but for neurodivergent teens, it can also come with a lot of uncertainty. The mums alone are crazy and might I add… uncomfortable, but who wouldn’t want one!

• Pep-rally in a smelly crowded gym that smells like day old socks…ew!

• Loud music blaring…hello we are not hard hearing…we just may act like it.

• Can someone please do something about those flashing lights!

• Unfamiliar social expectations

• Uncomfortable clothing…No, give me soft and comfy!

• Oh come-on, what’s with all the last-minute changes?

All of these things list above can turn an exciting event into sensory and emotional overload. That doesn't mean your teen have to miss out. It simply means their version of homecoming may look a little different.

Parents can help by talking through the evening ahead of time. What will the venue be like? Who will they go with? What happens if they need a break? Having a transportation plan, a trusted friend nearby, comfortable clothing options, or even an agreed-upon early exit can give teens more confidence.

Most importantly, avoid measuring their experience against everyone else's. One teen may dance for three hours. Another may stay for thirty minutes, take a few pictures with friends, and decide they've had enough. Both can be successful homecoming experiences.

Homecoming isn't about creating the "perfect" teenage memory. It's about giving teens an opportunity to participate in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and authentic to them.

Sometimes the best question isn't, "Are you going to homecoming?"

It's "What would make homecoming enjoyable for you?"