Have yourself an autism friendly Christmas…
Yes Virginia, It is possible. Think about the holidays in a different way, from the point of view of your loved on on the autism spectrum. The holidays are supposed to be a fun, relaxing time for everyone, but for those on the spectrum, it sometimes isn’t. Why?
Sometimes we fail to understand how all of the schedule changes, decorations and “fun” surprises can be a constant sensory assault on an individual with autism. Think for a moment about all the ways that your not in control of various aspects of your life when it comes to work or other situations. Then realize that your child has even less control. Almost everything they do is in someone else’s control- by you, their teacher or a therapist. Things like: What time events happen. How a room is decorated. The noise and smells of various places. Very little of this in under their control and yet we act surprised when an individual acts out when a “small change” has to occur. Everyone has a breaking point including our loved ones on the spectrum.
So remember during the challenging holiday season setting yourself up for success is necessary. Here’s a list of ideas for you to make your holiday autism friendly.
Plan your meals with sensory preferences in mind or bring just bring things that you know that they will eat. It’s okay if they eat chicken nuggets again when everyone else is eating turkey or steak.
Do they really need to dress up for the occasion or can a more comfortable clothing accommodations be made available?
Skip the candles and strong scents if needed.
Think about the noise level and how that can be addressed.
Decorate slowly over several days or decorate fewer rooms overall. Keep a safe space with no changes in the room décor.
It’s okay to not wrap gifts or to place several gifts in a larger box so there are fewer to unwrap. If the child has motor planning issues, consider putting items in bags that take less effort to open. Some kids really don’t like the surprise of opening presents. Opening presents over several days is an also an option and perhaps even more fun since they can focus on playing with one new toy at a time.
If you celebrate Santa, be sure that you aren’t creating anxiety regarding Naughty or Nice. If you are visiting Santa, look for sensory friendly options in your area. In Fort Wayne, there is an option here https://www.glenbrooksquare.com/en/events/santa-cares-day-37727.html
Maintain as many routines as you can. Keep bath time and bedtime routines the same as much as possible. When it’s not, talk about the changes that are happening and what they can expect.
Create a calendar of events and/or using visual supports can be helpful. Counting the days to a specific holiday or back to school can be reassuring.
Don’t forget the survival pack if your traveling. Headphones, games, books, fidgets, snacks - whatever it takes.
Schedule down time for everyone- including yourself. Remember this is supposed to be a relaxing time for everyone.
Create your own holiday traditions that work for you and your family. Forget about what everyone else is doing on their carefully curated holiday social media post.
Ask your loved one on the autism spectrum what’s important to them about the holiday season and take their lead.