November 19, 2024
The Season of Thankfulness and Preparation is upon us!
It is that magical time of year families living with autism work with our support team to develop a preparation (or survival) plan to support those we love living with autism to have a good experience at our family gatherings. The reason we continue to push our child and ourselves to achieve a positive experience helps us all to develop and nurture a strong support network. Friends and family can play a crucial role in both emotional and practical support, helping us and our children thrive.
The holiday season can be a magical and meaningful time filled with joy, family gatherings, and traditions. However, for us, the holiday season can also bring unique challenges and possibly unforeseen obstacles. We can expect to have changes in routines, sensory overload, and unexpected social interactions that can be overwhelming. The goal of this blog is to help support you and your child to navigate the holidays with ease.
It is common for individuals with autism to thrive on routine and predictability. Before the holiday season begins, take time to explain upcoming events to your child. Use a calendar to mark special days, and discuss what each event will entail. Visual supports, such as social stories or picture schedules, can help your child understand what to expect. Please see our blog on how to write a social story for more support and details. Involving your child in holiday preparations can help reduce anxiety. Let your child assist with decorating, choosing what to wear, or selecting gifts. This can give them a sense of control and help them feel more comfortable with the changes around them. It is also helpful to share or discuss this plan with family and friends and communicate how they can best support you to increase the success of this plan.
No matter where you are going, create a safe space. Communicate this with family ahead of time and let them know not to interrupt unless request help or support. Holiday celebrations can be loud and bustling, which might be overwhelming for a child on the autism spectrum. Designate a quiet, sensory-friendly space where your child can retreat if they feel overstimulated. Equip it with familiar items like their favorite toys, a cozy blanket, or noise-canceling headphones. My favorite item is a portable DVD player, headphones and familiar DVDs. As much as we love to use our smart phone or tablet, we cannot guarantee the WiFi situation, which brings me to my next point.
Be aware of potential sensory triggers such as loud music, flashing lights, or strong scents. If attending a gathering, consider arriving early to help your child acclimate to the environment before it becomes crowded. Discuss any specific needs with the host beforehand to ensure a comfortable setting for your child. You are allowed to bring your child’s preferred foods to any holiday event. Focusing on eating new foods in this already overstimulating environment can only add stress and increase frustration. Decrease demands whenever you can.
Preparation expands to your family and friends who will be attending the holiday too. Be your child’s voice and discuss with family members and friends about your child’s needs and preferences. Explain that your child might need space or time to adjust to new environments. Encourage them to be patient and respectful, and to interact with your child in ways that are comfortable for them.
Role-playing common holiday scenarios with your child can help them feel more prepared. Practice greetings, prayers, crafts, gift exchanges, and other social interactions. This can build their confidence and reduce anxiety surrounding social expectations.
While routines are important, the holiday season often requires flexibility. Be open to adjusting plans if your child becomes overwhelmed. It’s okay to leave an event early, skip certain activities, or take breaks as needed. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to celebrate the holidays. Focus on creating an experience that is enjoyable and stress-free for your family. Whether it’s a quiet day at home or a small gathering with close family, prioritize what works best for you and your child. For my son, I planned small dinners with each of my siblings and their families. It helped my son to acclimate to the larger family dinners over time.
The holiday season is an opportunity to create cherished memories with your child. By preparing ahead, managing sensory challenges, and embracing flexibility, you can help ensure a joyful and inclusive experience for your child. Remember, your love and understanding are the greatest gifts you can give them during this festive time.
Enhancing Lives at BAI
