Graduations-Not All Caps and Gowns

Table of Contents

• Feel Good:Lifelong Learning & Little Graduations

• Travel Well:Self-Care & Travel Prep for Moms on the Go

• Thrive Together: Every milestone matters

🌟 Lifelong Learning & Little Graduations 🎓

In my office, tucked into one of my vision boards, there’s a faded newspaper clipping from 2007. It features Nola Ochs, who, at 95 years old, became the oldest college graduate at that time. She’s been an inspiration to me ever since—a reminder that learning doesn’t have an expiration date.

There’s always something new to discover, something that helps us grow. And while college isn’t the only path to learning, the journey of becoming is a lifelong one.

I went to college myself—but I kept changing my major and never finished a degree. Instead, I met my husband there… and my “graduation” became something far greater: I became a mom.

For years, I felt “less than” because I didn’t finish college. I was intimidated by friends with degrees and felt like I wasn’t smart enough. It took me a long time to realize I wasn’t meant to follow a traditional path—I was meant to be an entrepreneur. I found out that the business world became my classroom. I learned by doing. I studied by risking, trying, failing, trying again.

Many professors teach business from textbooks—I was living it.

Over time (and probably enough investment to earn two degrees!), I saw that the old formula—“go to school, get good grades, get a good job, retire with a pension”—was no longer the only way to succeed. I came to peace with not having a diploma, because I’ve graduated in so many other ways.

Graduation, as a noun, means “the successful completion of a program of study”—and I’ve completed many.

So thank you, Nola Ochs, for being a symbol of lifelong curiosity and growth. You made a mark on my life.

As we move through May, many of us are receiving graduation announcements—from adorable preschool ceremonies to the long-awaited cap-and-gown college milestones.

If you have a loved one on the autism spectrum, you know that the journey of learning may look very different. Milestones may come slower, or in a different order, or not in the ways others might expect. And when formal education comes to an end, it can feel bittersweet.

But here’s my invitation to you: celebrate every step.

Whether it’s learning to eat new foods, tie a shoe, or even smile—these are graduations, too. They are victories. They are milestones worth cheering for.

Life is not just about one big graduation. It’s about all the little ones that move us forward.

So celebrate the journey. Embrace the path. And most of all—keep learning, today, tomorrow and always. 🎓

🧳 THE AUTISM PASSPORT

🧡 Self-Care & Travel Prep for Moms on the Go

T – 🕒 Take Time for You

Even 10–15 mins a day can refresh your spirit. During travel, give yourself breaks to reset.

H – 💧 Hydrate Often

Water = energy + patience. Pack a cute refillable bottle!

E – ✨Embrace Imperfection

Let go of guilt. Things may go sideways—breathe and roll with it.

A – 🤝 Ask for Help

You don’t have to do it all. Accept help. Delegate when possible.

U – 📵 Unplug Daily

Less screen time = more peace. Schedule phone-free moments.

T – 💖 Treat Yourself Kindly

Bring something that comforts YOU—snacks, journal, lotion, book.

I – 🌬️ Inhale Deeply

Use calming breaths (4-7-8 method) when stress rises.

S – 🧺 Simplify Everything

Pack light. Lower expectations. Fewer plans = more peace.

M – 🕺 Move Your Body

Stretch, walk, or dance. Movement clears your mind.

P – 🎒 Pack with Purpose

Include essentials and calming tools—for you and your child.

A – 🌞 Affirm What Matters

Repeat daily: “I am calm. I am capable. I am enough.”

S – 😴 Sleep Smart

Create a soothing bedtime routine—even on vacation.

S – 🚫 Say No Without Guilt

It’s okay to skip things. Protect your peace.

P – 🗓️ Plan for Breaks

Space between activities helps everyone recharge.

O – 🧳 Organize Early

Prep bags, meds, docs, snacks a day before departure.

R – 📝 Reflect Often

Journal or voice memo your wins + worries. It clears mental clutter.

T – 🌟 Trust Yourself

You are the expert on your child. Trust your instincts.

I remember when this video first went viral—and re-watching it recently brought tears to my eyes all over again.

There’s something so powerful about watching a community truly see and celebrate someone for who they are. I love how this school rallied around Jack to help him celebrate a milestone that might otherwise go unnoticed or unappreciated.

It’s a beautiful reminder that inclusion isn't just about accommodations—it's about connection, joy, and belonging.

Let this be a spark of hope and inspiration for all of us—every milestone matters, and when we celebrate together, we all thrive.

💬 Watch here Jack Milestone Celebration!

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