The Lesson in the M&M’s

In partnership with

Parents Know Best

I knew I was going to see my friend and her daughter, J—a bright, non-speaking young lady. Before we met, I texted my friend: “J doesn’t have any food allergies, right?” She replied, “No.”

So, I grabbed a baggie of chocolate and M&M’s, thinking it would be a fun little treat.

When we met, I sat beside them and was about to hand J the baggie when her mom gave me a quick look and said, “I’ll keep them in my purse.” We were at a meeting, and about fifteen minutes later, she gave J a couple of M&M’s.

The meeting went on, but soon I noticed J pulling at her headphones and moving restlessly. Mom immediately took her outside.

I thought to myself, “J was doing so well… why take her out now? She’s just moving a little more—what’s wrong?”

That day, I learned a HUGE lesson: Parents and caregivers know best. Nobody—no matter how well-meaning—knows your child better than you.

It turned out J has a sensitivity to the coloring in M&M’s. She hadn’t reacted in years… until that day. In my effort to be thoughtful, I had accidentally triggered an allergic reaction.

Parents of children with disabilities have a strength and clarity that amazes me. They don’t let emotions get in the way of what needs to be done. They are fierce fighters and gentle protectors all at once.

Thankfully, J was fine after about thirty minutes. My friend was gracious and reassuring—she didn’t blame me. Instead, she showed me the quiet strength that comes from loving and advocating for your child every single day.

💡 Practical Tips

For friends & family: Even if you’ve asked about food allergies or sensory sensitivities before, ask again—especially if you’re bringing treats or gifts. Needs and reactions can change over time, and a quick double-check can prevent a stressful situation.

For parents, grandparents and caregivers: It’s okay to say “no” politely when someone offers your child something that may not be safe or appropriate. A simple phrase like, “Thank you so much for thinking of them, but we’ll pass this time” keeps the exchange kind while protecting your child.

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I was helping a family member book a trip, and we reached the page where I needed to enter her passport information. I asked her to grab her passport so I could double-check the exact name.

Then came the familiar pause… followed by, “Oh no!”

I knew exactly what was coming next: “My passport expired last December.”

There are many ways to expedite a passport—something I’ll cover in another newsletter. But for now, here’s your friendly reminder:

• Check your passport expiration date well before booking a trip. Many countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

• If flying domestically, make sure your driver’s license has the REAL ID star that meets the new U.S. travel requirements.

• Check your state’s regulations for updating your license if you need to switch to one that is travel-compliant.

A quick five-minute check today can save you from a last-minute travel heartbreak later.

Navigating Airport Security with Ease (Autism-Friendly Edition)

Airport security can be overwhelming—bright lights, crowds, noise, and time pressure can create extra stress. With a little preparation, you can make it smoother for yourself, your family, and the TSA staff.

Before You Travel

• Match your ID exactly. When booking, make sure the name on your reservation matches your ID exactly—no nicknames or missing middle names.

• Contact TSA Cares. Call 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel to request assistance. They can help guide you through security with less stress.

• Request a Passenger Support Specialist. This trained TSA staff member can walk you through the process step-by-step and help if sensory sensitivities or anxiety arise.

• Pack a sensory kit. Noise-reducing headphones, sunglasses, fidgets, or calming snacks can help manage overstimulation.

At the Airport

• Stay hydrated—later. Empty all water bottles before you enter the security line.

• Keep your ticket handy.

  • Printed ticket? Have it in hand—not buried in your bag.

  • E-ticket? Take a screenshot in case your app freezes.

• Group travel? Keep everyone’s tickets together for quick access.

In the Security Line

• Empty your pockets early. Keys, coins, phones, and other metal items should go into your bag before you reach the bins.

• Wear easy-on/easy-off shoes. Avoid complicated laces or buckles.

• Skip belts and bulky jewelry. It’s faster to remove them before the scanner.

• Secure valuables. Place phones, wallets, and electronics in a zippered pouch so nothing gets left behind in the bins. (Yes, I’ve learned this the hard way!)

• Keep eyes on your belongings. If traveling with someone, have one person go through before your bins to watch them come out. Items can be picked up by mistake—or on purpose.

Extra Autism-Friendly Tips

• Ask for a private screening if the scanner or pat-down process feels overwhelming.

• Let TSA staff know about sensory needs—you can use a discreet card or simply tell the officer, “We have sensory sensitivities.”

• Practice at home. Role-play placing items in a bin and walking through a “checkpoint” so it feels familiar.

A few minutes of preparation, plus knowing your options, can turn airport security from an overwhelming hurdle into a smoother, calmer experience—for you and everyone traveling with you.

Now that the kids are back in school… what about you?

Besides the cooking, laundry, carpooling, appointments, managing the household—or running a business or working outside the home—what are you doing for you?

What brings you joy?
What lights up your day?
What helps you breathe a little deeper and smile a little longer?

I’ve been thinking about how important it is to do something just for ourselves. Not out of duty. Not to check off a box. But because it fills us up.

Here are a few simple ideas you can try this week—some purposeful, some just because:

💑 Plan a double date – strengthen your marriage
🥗 Meet a friend for lunch – nurture your friendships
👩‍👧‍👧 Call your mom or sisters – reconnect with family
📞 Chat with a friend while doing housework – build bonds in everyday moments
🎧 Listen to personal development audio while folding laundry – grow while getting things done
🧠 Tune into a webinar while getting ready or cooking – learn something new

How about you?
Can you give yourself permission to do one thing this week just for you? No guilt. No judgment. Just because you matter.

I'd love to hear what you did!
Reply to this email and share—I'm cheering you on. 😊

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