Autism Corner

All Things ABA

Five Tip Tuesday: Navigating the Holidays with a Child with Autism

The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, good food, and making memories. But for families with a child with autism, these gatherings can sometimes be overwhelming and stressful. Here are five tips for dealing with family gatherings during the holidays:

  1. Plan ahead. Before the gathering, talk to your child about what to expect and discuss any concerns they may have. It can also be helpful to create a social story or visual schedule to help your child understand the events of the day.

  2. Set boundaries. It's okay to say no to invitations or to limit the amount of time your child spends at a gathering. It's important to prioritize your child's well-being and to make sure they’re comfortable.

  3. Communicate with other family members. Let other family members know about your child's needs and preferences, if they don’t already. This will help them understand the situation better and make the gathering more enjoyable for everyone.

  4. Create a sensory-friendly space. Many children with autism have sensory sensitivities, so it can be helpful to create a quiet space where your child can go to relax and recharge if they become overwhelmed. This can be a designated room or even just a corner of a room with comfortable seating and noise-cancelling headphones.

  5. Have a backup plan. It's always a good idea to have a plan in place in case your child becomes overwhelmed or needs to leave the gathering early. This could be as simple as having a trusted family member or friend on standby who can take your child for a walk or provide a quiet space for them to relax.

Overall, the key to dealing with family gatherings during the holidays with a child with autism is to be prepared and to prioritize your child's well-being. By planning ahead and communicating with other family members, you can make the holiday season enjoyable for everyone.

Shogik MartirosyanComment