With the holiday season just around the corner, I wanted to share some tips and suggestions on how to make the celebrations more enjoyable and comfortable for your autistic child. It’s important to create an inclusive and understanding environment during this time, where everyone can fully take part and experience the joy of the holidays.
Preparing Your Child for Changes in Routine
Familiarize your child with the upcoming events and changes in routine. Use visual aids, social stories, or a calendar to help them understand what to expect. Discuss any potential sensory triggers they might encounter during gatherings, such as bright lights, loud music, or strong smells. If my son asks, I explain more about the upcoming holiday and make sure he is not stressed about the upcoming potential noise it can bring with it – I take out his noise cancelling headphones and show him and remind him we can go home anytime from the party or close windows if he wants to stop the noise from the outside.
Maintain routines
Structure and predictability are crucial for children on the autism spectrum. Try to maintain their regular routines as much as possible, even during holiday festivities. This can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of stability amidst the excitement. I tell my son 2-3 days in advance and remind every day before we plan to go outside to meet grandma and have a party family dinner together.
Create a Retreat Space for Sensory Breaks
Set up a designated quiet area where your child can retreat if they become overwhelmed or need a break from the noise and commotion. Fill it with their favorite toys, books, or calming sensory items. This safe space will give them an opportunity to recharge and regroup. If we gather outside of our home at my brother’s home or have dinner at my mom’s apartment – I take his favorite toy and noise cancelling headphones and when I see my child is overwhelmed with the sensory stimuli, I suggest him go to the quiet room to recharge himself in my hugs.
Helping Family and Friends Support Your Child
Educate your loved ones about your child’s needs and sensitivities. Share information about autism and provide suggestions on how they can be supportive and inclusive. Encourage them to be patient, understanding, and avoid making assumptions or judgments. Sometime friends and close family members do not get the right approach to calm your child down. They make more noise and exciting voices to distract a little one from his frustration, which overwhelms more. You need to guard your child and softly explain them what works best. I remember there were parties we quit quickly and went home as they were not fitting my child’s interests and were too boring to him or too noisy he could not handle that.
Incorporating Sensory-Friendly Activities
Consider incorporating sensory-friendly activities into your holiday celebrations. This could involve using noise-canceling headphones, providing fidget toys, or engaging in quiet activities like arts and crafts. These activities can help your child feel more comfortable and engaged during gatherings.
Using Social Scripts to Boost Confidence
Help your child navigate social interactions by creating a social script together. Practice greetings, conversations, and appropriate ways to express their needs or emotions. This can provide them with a sense of confidence and reduce anxiety during social interactions.
Managing Your Child’s Dietary Needs
Many holiday gatherings revolve around food, and it’s important to be mindful of your child’s dietary restrictions or sensitivities. Communicate with the host in advance, and if necessary, bring along some safe and familiar foods to ensure your child can enjoy the meal without any discomfort.
Involve your child in preparations
Engage your child in the holiday preparations, such as decorating the house, making crafts, or baking cookies. This not only helps them feel included but also provides an opportunity to practice important life skills and promotes a sense of accomplishment.
Adjusting Plans With Patience and Understanding
Remember that every child with autism is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be flexible and open to adjusting plans or expectations as needed. Celebrate the small victories and focus on creating positive experiences for your child.
Take care of yourself: Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself during this busy time. Self-care is vital for managing stress and being the best parent you can be. Find moments to relax, recharge, and seek support from friends, family, or support groups.
I hope these tips help you and your family create a joyful and inclusive holiday season for your autistic child. Remember, small adjustments and understanding can go a long way in ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved.
Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and happy holiday season!