As you eagerly look forward to the upcoming holidays, you, like many families raising children on the autism spectrum, understand that this festive time brings its own challenges. The joy of celebrations can sometimes be mixed with difficulties when routines get changed.
The holiday season means more than just decorating the tree and giving and receiving gifts for families like yours. It involves finding a careful balance between enjoying the festive spirit and managing things that might upset your child with Autism.
Imagine a time when the bright lights and happy tunes of the season feel like too much, and the cheerful chaos of gatherings brings more worry than joy. If you haven’t experienced it, it might be hard to understand, but for those like you, navigating this unique parenting journey, it’s a reality.
As the holidays approach, there’s a chance to get ready and make things easier. By taking small steps beforehand, you can ensure that everyone in your family, including your child with Autism, not only takes part in the celebrations but truly enjoys the festive moments. It’s all about creating a celebration that includes everyone and brings happiness to each person involved.
Read on to learn how to prepare thoughtfully, turning potential challenges into shared happy times and making memories that last well beyond the holiday season.
Prepare your child
A few days in advance, gently chat about the upcoming festivities. Explore how the changes in routine might impact their daily life.
Create a visual countdown to the big day. Whether it’s on a calendar or a fun DIY project, counting down helps your child grasp the concept of time and anticipate the exciting changes ahead.
Structure is key for many kids with autism. Create a timeline schedule outlining the plan for each day. This provides a sense of routine, offering comfort to your child amid the holiday chaos. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
Utilize visual aids like charts or schedules to illustrate the holiday plans. This can be a game-changer in helping your child understand and prepare for the festive season.
Create a social story, a personalized narrative about the holiday experience, addressing potential challenges and celebrating the joys. Reading these stories together fosters a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Practice Before Events
Before the big day, create a mini-rehearsal of the event. Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive outing, familiarity helps your child feel more at ease. Engage in sensory-friendly activities related to the event. If there’ll be music, lights, or different textures, expose your child to similar stimuli beforehand.
Practice empowers your child with confidence. It’s like giving them a sneak peek, making the main event less overwhelming.
Maintain Routines
Consistency provides a sense of stability for our children with autism, helping them navigate through the excitement of the season. Stick to regular meal times, bedtime rituals, and other daily practices as much as possible.
Consider Sensory Needs
Pay attention to what sensory experiences might be overwhelming or soothing for your child. Consider smaller gatherings or family moments to reduce sensory overload. A cozy dinner or a quiet evening of holiday stories might be just as memorable.
Seek Quiet Spaces for Recharge
Amidst the holiday cheer, remember to carve out quiet spaces. Our kids with autism might need a breather from the sensory stimulation. Designate a calm spot where they can recharge, providing a retreat when the celebrations get a bit too vibrant. It could be a quiet room adorned with soft lighting, cozy blankets, and familiar items.
Embrace the unexpected
As parents, we know plans can take unexpected turns. The same goes for holiday celebrations with our children on the autism spectrum. Traditions are wonderful, but being open to tweaking them can make all the difference. If the usual routine needs adjusting, go with the flow. Creating new traditions that suit your child’s comfort level can be just as memorable.
Social gatherings can be a mixed bag for our kids. Be ready to adapt the environment to suit their needs. Consider quieter spaces, shorter visits, or even virtual meet-ups to ensure your child is comfortable in social settings.
Take Care of Yourself Too
Amidst the holiday preparations, it’s easy to put your needs on the back burner. Remember, you’re the anchor for your family. Schedule moments for self-care—whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a brisk walk, or even a chapter of your favorite book.
The holidays don’t have to be perfect. Embrace imperfections and set realistic expectations. Focus on creating moments that matter rather than chasing an ideal. Your child’s well-being—and yours—trumps the need for a flawless celebration.
You don’t have to do it all alone. Delegate tasks and communicate openly with family and friends about your needs. People often want to help but may not know how.
The holidays might be a bit tough for kids with autism and their families, but here’s some good news – there are lots of practical solutions that can make things better. If you’re a parent, guardian, or someone who cares about a child with autism, we understand it can be challenging during this festive time. What’s important is having a good grasp of the difficulties and, more crucially, having strategies that really work.
And if you ever feel like you need extra help during this time, the specialists at Nurture Pods are here for you. We’re experts in creating personalized programs for children with special needs, whether at home or school. Our methods are based on evidence and are all about giving effective support, helping special needs children reach their full potential. Get in touch with us for support tailored to your family and a happier holiday season.
Written by: Alex Liau
Published on 20 December 2023
