Your autistic child likely craves a predictable routine for the comfort and safety it helps them feel, a reliable world that they can count on. The holiday season is, of course, anything but routine with events, visits, travel, and festivities.
Dr 2 Kids, Smita Tandon MD specializes in autism care, offering early intervention screenings and long-term management screenings to help autistic children and their parents, no matter where on the spectrum the children sit.
To help your autistic child thrive during the holidays, we’ve prepared a guide with some strategies that may help you. Remember that you know your child best, so choose the tips you think will help the most.
Minimize the impact of changes by keeping a graphically visual calendar with new events easy to see. Adding a countdown timer can also reinforce the break to the normal routine.
Be sure your child understands how these events may affect the micro details of their days, such as changes to meals or bedtimes. Emphasize elements that remain the same, perhaps brushing their teeth or bathing.
Recharging is a key part of the day for many autistic children. Some kids recharge quietly, like reading or playing with a favorite toy, while others seek movement and activity. Take your child’s tendencies and make space for these normalizing moments.
Support your child’s emotional regulation by being on guard for moments that may overwhelm your child and plan strategies to accommodate them, such as being aware of quiet, safe spaces in which to practice co-regulation. Being calm and leading self-soothing techniques can defuse the moment. Fidget toys and vibration products travel well.
Bright lights, changing locations, crowds, unfamiliar people, and loud music can all challenge your child’s sensory sensitivity. Once again, having a calm, safe space works for kids susceptible to overstimulation, while sensory seekers may be drawn to busy, bright, colorful locations. Decorate your home accordingly too. Matching decorations and lighting to meet sensory expectations can help promote your child’s comfort and involvement.
The holidays can bring out the best — and the worst — in anyone, and there’s often no way to plan for it. The same holds true for your child with autism.
The holidays aren’t always perfect, despite our best efforts. Roll with the moments. Give your child the ability to participate on their own terms. When you can, choose smaller gatherings or short-duration events to minimize discomfort.
Contact Dr 2 Kids, Smita Tandon MD whenever you feel the need for qualified autism management advice. Call or click to arrange your visit now.
