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Tips to Prepare Your Child with Autism for Holiday Gatherings

Blog post title decorative image: Tips for Preparing Your Child with Autism for Holiday Gatherings

6 Practical Tips

The holiday season can be a joyous time, but they can also present unique challenges. New environments, unfamiliar faces, and disrupted routines can sometimes lead to sensory overwhelm. However, with thoughtful preparation and a few strategies to prepare your child with autism for holiday gatherings, you can help your child navigate holiday events with confidence and joy.

1. Use Social Stories to Set Expectations

Social stories are a fantastic tool to help children with autism understand what to expect during holiday gatherings. Create a story or use visuals to walk your child through the event, including who will be there, what activities will happen, and any sensory experiences they might encounter. For example, mention relatives arriving, festive music playing, or sitting down for a meal together.

2. Practice Ahead of Time

Rehearse certain elements of the gathering, such as saying hello to guests, opening gifts, or sitting at the table for a meal. Role-playing scenarios can make unfamiliar social interactions feel more predictable and manageable.

Display of a social story: Paper cutouts representing people with title "share your story"

3. Plan for Sensory Needs

Holiday gatherings can be loud and visually stimulating, which may be overwhelming for children with autism. Bring noise-canceling headphones, preferred toys, a weighted blanket to provide comfort, and other effective sensory items. Designate a quiet space at the gathering where your child can retreat if they need a break.

4. Maintain Routines as Much as Possible

While holiday events can disrupt schedules, keeping as many routines as possible intact can help your child feel secure. Stick to regular meal and bedtime schedules, and bring familiar items from home, like their favorite snacks or stuffed animal.

5. Communicate with Hosts

Talk with your hosts about your child’s needs before the event. Share helpful tips, like keeping background music at a moderate volume or refraining from strong-scented candles, to create a more sensory-friendly environment. Alternatively if you can offer to host if feasible – likely your space is already set up for your child’s success! 

6. Celebrate Small Wins

Remember, every child is unique, and progress looks different for everyone. Celebrate moments your child is able to be successful – no matter how small!
Mother and elementary aged son high-fiving at table while child writes in notebook

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