Holidays may be a time for merry-making and celebrations, but keeping the needs of your child with autism during the holiday season can feel daunting. Celebrations can mean loud, boisterous gatherings with the extended family, who may not understand the workings of an autistic mind.
Holidays create the time of the year when an autistic child’s challenges with social interactions, sensory overwhelm, and need for routine may all be tested to their absolute limit.
Needless to say, the experience can be tough on parents, caregivers, and siblings too. However, every challenge can be planned for and handled with patience and compassion to make the season memorable for everyone!
Not everyone in your extended family may understand the daily challenges and sensitivities involved in bringing up a child with autism. Holidays are a time to be together, but it needn’t be restricting or unpleasant for anyone.
Talk to your family beforehand and set expectations so they understand that your child may experience and enjoy the holidays differently from them. Helping them become sensitive to your child’s needs can help manage expectations and make things less stressful for everyone.
There are always a host of festive things to do over the holidays. Don’t feel compelled to join with your child for every one of them. Select and participate in the traditions that are comfortable for your child.
For instance, they may enjoy participating in decorating the Christmas tree but would prefer to avoid opening presents due to the excitement levels around it.
Explain to your family at what point during the celebrations your child may need to step away for quiet time. However, the fun need not stop for everyone else.
Plan your child’s time keeping in mind their preferences as much as possible. This will ensure they don’t feel overwhelmed or frustrated with the need to conform and make the experience enjoyable.
Keep your child’s food preferences in mind during meal times and forewarn your family about it. There is no reason for a struggle about whether your child samples everything on offer at a holiday party or event.
If they want to only eat their usual favorite and not indulge in the pudding grandma made, so be it. Let your child set the tone so that you minimize the stress from these seemingly regular activities that are part of holiday events.
Allow your child to find their comfort zone within the house. It may be part of the room everyone is in or in a different room (within reason) where they can find quiet time.
Giving your child access to a spot they can go to if things become overwhelming can help them calm themselves.
Family gatherings can be busy and loud, with an abundance of sights, smells, and people at all times. Know your child’s limit and keep an eye out for any signs of distress or overwhelm. Keep noise-canceling headphones handy, so your child can access them when needed.
Supporting them through any distressing instance will ensure any feelings of frustration do not trigger other maladaptive behaviors. You can also bring your child’s favorite fidget toys to help comfort them.
With a little bit of planning and patience, your family can have a wonderful time celebrating the holiday season together.
Adapt holiday traditions to suit your family’s needs and ensure everyone has a memorable holiday.
At Sunshine Advantage, we understand the unique challenges the holidays can present for a child with ASD. Our team can help you develop personalized strategies for managing sensory overload, social situations, and changes in routine.
To explore options for your child and family, call us at 855-523-2327 or contact us online.
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