The holiday season can be full of joy, but it also brings unique challenges for Autistic children due to changes in routines, sensory overload, and heightened social expectations. Here are some strategies to help families navigate this time of year, grounded in the principles of emotional regulation and supportive practices:
1. Create Predictability with Schedules
The unpredictable nature of holidays can feel overwhelming. Help children feel secure by:
- Visual Schedules: Use a calendar or visual chart to outline upcoming events like family dinners, parties, or special activities.
- Countdowns: Use countdown timers or a “days-until” chart to prepare for big events.
- Preview Changes: Provide plenty of notice when routines are disrupted, such as later bedtimes or travel days.
2. Adjust the Sensory Environment
Holiday environments can be overstimulating with bright lights, loud music, and crowded gatherings. Be aware of your child’s sensory needs and adjust spaces by increasing or decreasing the sensory input as needed. Support sensory needs by:
- Creating a Sensory-Friendly Space: Designate a quiet, calming area where children can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Offer exciting stimulating spaces if your child is a sensory-seeker and needs more input.
- Modifying Decorations: Opt for soft lighting or minimal decorations to reduce visual clutter for those children who are sensitive to bright lights.
- Offering Headphones or Earplugs: These can be helpful for reducing noise during events or outings. Making these available for children to choose when they are needed is a great option.
3. Build in Breaks
Even fun activities can be exhausting for children. Incorporate breaks into the day to recharge:
- Structured Downtime: Schedule quiet activities like reading, drawing, or playing with a favourite toy between events.
- Movement Breaks: For sensory-seeking kids, incorporate physical activities like jumping on a trampoline or dancing to holiday music.
4. Use Social Stories
Prepare children for new experiences with social stories that explain what to expect during holiday activities.
- Example Topics:
- Meeting Santa
- Visiting family members
- Opening gifts (and waiting your turn)
- Attending a holiday party
- Visuals: Pair the story with pictures or drawings to help children visualize what will happen.
5. Incorporate Visual Supports
Visual tools can be a great way to reduce anxiety and improve understanding:
- Schedule Boards: Help children understand what’s happening now and what’s next (e.g., “have breakfast, open presents, clean up”).
- Choice Boards: Offer visual options for activities, snacks, or games to give a sense of control.
6. Manage Emotional Regulation
As highlighted in Why Emotional Regulation Might Mean Everything, emotional regulation is key to helping children navigate stressful situations. Support regulation by:
- Identify Triggers: Be aware of situations that might overwhelm your child and plan accommodations.
- Use Co-Regulation Strategies: Stay calm yourself and model deep breathing or other self-soothing techniques to help your child regulate.
- Use Sensory Tools: Use tools like weighted blankets, fidget toys, or vibration products to support emotional regulation.
7. Set Realistic Expectations
The holidays don’t need to be perfect. Focus on what’s meaningful and adjust plans to meet your child’s needs.
- Flexible Participation: Allow your child to participate in activities at their own comfort level.
- Small Celebrations: Consider smaller, shorter gatherings that may feel less overwhelming.
8. Celebrate Achievements
Even small steps are worth celebrating! Acknowledge and praise your child for their efforts in trying new things, navigating social situations, or using regulation tools.
With these strategies, families can create a more predictable, supportive, and joyful holiday season that meets their child’s unique needs. Remember, the goal is to help children feel safe, connected, and empowered to enjoy the holidays in their own way.
For a great Podcast on “Autism at the Holidays”, check out this UNIQUELY HUMAN podcast.
For more resources and personalized support, feel free to reach out to our team at Children’s Autism Services!