It is probably safe to say that attending holiday gatherings is not high on the list of priorities for teenagers. They are past the age of sitting at the kid table for the dinner and might feel out of place with the topic of conversations at the adult table.

Parents can try to rectify this uncomfortable stage for their teenaged boy or girl by including them in the planning and cooking of the holiday meal.  You can start by asking them what vegetables they prefer and assign them the task to oversee the veggies for the Thanksgiving celebration.

Depending on the number of guests for the dinner, two to three options would be best, so everyone has something they will like and enjoy. 

They can be in charge of the seasonings to the vegetables and the salad dressings by researching holiday traditions on google.com or going through cookbooks in the home, as well as a recipe catalog/collection you may have. 

Another opportunity for the teenage boy or girl is to assist with the dessert preparations, whether it is homemade or store bought.  Have him or her list some suggestions for you to consider.  They can pick pies, ice cream, cakes, puddings and other delicacies.  It is wise to have a few options for all guests. 

If there is a family member with diet issues the teenager can compile a list of ingredients various guests will need to avoid.  Having the teenager be part of the activities relating to the holiday dinner keeps them in the loop.  They can contribute to the conversation by discussing how they chose a certain vegetable or dessert item. 

Depending on the time of the holiday dinner, make sure the teenager has had a healthy snack or lunch if the meal is not until dinner time.  Milk is still a good drink choice for teenagers and goes well with all holiday meal choices.  It is best to not fill up on breads prior to the main course.

Hopefully your teenager will look forward to turkey sandwiches along with turkey and vegetable soup in the days after the holiday dinner celebration.  They may even take the lead and serve breakfast on Black Friday. 

Bonnie is a freelance writer/editor that has many Autism Family Adventures and writes about Autism Spectrum Disorders.