Christmas is a big holiday that involves lots of planning, big extended family and endless amounts of food. For many of us, it goes far beyond the presents and hosting. For children diagnosed on the autism spectrum, the holiday can be chaotic and overwhelming, with schedules and routines being disrupted. The good news is that there are ways to help your child cope with all of the excitement and activity.
I have included a list of tips to help your little one navigate smoothly on Christmas Day.
1. Routine
Children with autism do best when there’s a schedule set in place. Try to prepare your kiddo in advance to let me know what’s coming. Don’t expect them to change their routine because you are changing yours. Let your child know what will happen and when it will happen. If your child thrives on schedules, explain to them the day’s schedule and what’s expected. Prepare your child a few weeks in advance. Outline the general timeline. The use of written of picture activity schedules is often helpful. Try arriving early to your host before any crowd or noise arrives. It allows your child to get acclimated into the excitement of the holiday.
2. Attire
Don’t freak out about their choice of clothing. Dress them for comfort, not the occasion. Bring an extra outfit for your little one just in case he or she has an accident. This will help with any meltdowns that may take place due to accidents.
3. Food
Christmas Day is all about gifts but let’s not forget about the food! Bring along nourishment and refreshments that you know your child will eat and enjoy. Monitor appetizers and plate food in the kitchen instead of piling the table with serving platters.
4. Entertainment
Bring along a bag of your child’s favorite toys, books and familiar activities. Don’t forget the charger for the iPad or Xbox and include the headphones. Your little one may choose screentime for sensory break or need to open gifts in private, please be supportive.
5. Escape Plan
Plan (prior to your dinner) your exit strategy! If the situation becomes too overwhelming (“sensory overload”) find a quiet room where your child can escape to relax. It’s also wise to have another adult on hand that can help with your autistic child if need be or with other children that may be at the event.
6. Offer Praise
MOST IMPORTANTLY! …. Don’t forget to acknowledge your children for playing, socializing or eating in an appropriate and healthy manner. Consider setting a cell phone alarm as a reminder to check-in with your child and provide positive feedback right then and there. Doing this periodically may help before a meltdown or disruptive behavior occurs.
I hope these tips are helpful. Praying for a safe and healthy Christmas holiday for everyone. Happy Holidays from my family to yours!
Until next time …
