Holiday Hints ❄
Ah, the holidays!
While all of the sparkling lights, jubilant carols, and abundant hugs from loved ones may be a yearly bliss to most, for individuals with autism, the season may be more reminiscent of the “Nightmare Before Christmas”.
To avoid a possible holiday “meltdown” from our adorable snowmen/women, here are some Holiday Hints to help us spread some cheer!
❄ Great Expectations ❄
Having to explain to Aunt Bertha why Timmy doesn’t want to say “hi” can be quite the awkward icebreaker each year. While I am a huge believer of not having to explain our kiddo’s choices of behavior away, giving some insight to your family prior to an event may help relieve some tension. And I know what you’re thinking… “But Chelsea, that’s just another thing for me to do!”
No worries— I’ve got you covered! Feel free to email me for an editable copy of these helpful hints to send to the entire family email thread prior to the big day!
❄ Rehearse Schedule Beforehand ❄
Practice makes perfect! If possible, get an idea of the schedule of activities your family will be engaging in together. Then, create a schedule to help guide your kiddo through the day. Visual schedules, written schedules, or verbal rehearsal can all be beneficial tools!
Although unexpected changes are inevitable, having an expectation for the day may help relieve some anxiety. Example:
“We’re leaving for Grandma’s around 8:00 on Saturday. Grandpa is making breakfast for us around 9:00. We will eat breakfast and then you can play with your cousins. Lunch will be around 12:00. We are having ham with mashed potatoes and green beans. Opening presents will be after lunch. We may take pictures around 2:00. We will be home before 4:00.”
This structure can help with any potential anxiety throughout the day. If your kiddo keeps asking when they’ll be able to open presents, you can refer back to the schedule! “First we’re eating lunch, then we can open presents!”
❄ Plan Consistent Breaks ❄
If any of you have watched “Christmas Vacation”, you’ll know just how important breaks from the consistent conversation and activities of our loved ones may be!
Plan consistent ‘sensory’ breaks every hour or so to give them (and yourself) a set place and time to unwind. Here are some examples of activities:
Take a walk in the neighborhood to look at the neighbors’ holiday decorations and to get some fresh air
Allow for some uninterrupted iPad time in the guest bedroom
Bundle up in weighted blankets while giving deep pressure squeezes
❄ Breathe & Trust ❄
Last but not least, breathe and trust. I know planning for the holidays is extremely stressful, especially when trying to make it an enjoyable experience for your child as well. While the thought of potential snide comments from family members, tantrums at the dinner table, and having to plan a 3-course, gluten free meal for one day may not seem worth it, remember that you know exactly what you’re doing. You are the expert in the parenting department!
Trust that you can make it through the day problem-free. You’ve handled the behaviors before, you know the best fidgets to bring, and you know that you are being the best parent you can be to your child. Allow yourself the freedom to breathe and to enjoy the day!
Being a parent to a magical kiddo doesn’t mean that you have to lose the magic of the holidays you once felt.
Sending warm wishes to you & your family,
❄ Chelsea