The holiday season can be particularly challenging for families with children on the autism spectrum. As the school break begins, the combination of bustling family gatherings, loud voices, and the overwhelming scents of traditional holiday meals can lead to stress and anxiety. With my twin sons, who are both 14 and on the autism spectrum, we’ve faced our share of holiday gatherings. Christmas can often feel like one of the least accommodating holidays for us. So how have we managed to keep our spirits high and our sanity intact? Here are some strategies that might help make your holiday season a bit brighter.
Arrive Early to Settle In
Getting to the event before the crowd arrives allows your child to acclimate to the new environment. My sons often need time to adapt, especially when transitioning from the car to a new space. Giving them a few extra minutes can make a big difference and help avoid any last-minute stress.
Bring Familiar Foods
When it comes to meals, it’s essential to have options that your child will actually eat. For us, this often means packing a simple fruit salad—just plain fruit, no extras. In the past, we’ve brought entire meals to family gatherings, including deli meats, rice crackers, or even homemade chicken nuggets. While it might not be the traditional holiday fare, it ensures that the boys have something they enjoy.
Consider Hosting the Gathering
Hosting can be a more effective alternative, despite the potential added costs. By inviting family to our home, we create a more controlled environment where my sons feel safe. Plus, it allows us to ask guests to contribute dishes, easing the cooking burden. We can also keep their favorite activities on hand, which helps keep them engaged.
Plan Activities to Keep Kids Occupied
To ensure that my sons have something to do, we often bring our Wii console along. While others are chatting or playing traditional games, my boys can immerse themselves in something familiar and enjoyable. It’s crucial to have these engaging activities ready, as it prevents them from seeking out other ways to entertain themselves, which can sometimes lead to disruptive behavior.
Create a Quiet Eating Area
During meals, a designated quiet space can be incredibly beneficial. When my sons were younger, we found that feeding them in a less stimulating area—like a breezeway—helped them manage their sensory overload better. Sometimes, unconventional solutions, like having a snack in a pantry, can work wonders.
Stick to Familiar Routines
The holiday season often disrupts regular schedules, which can heighten anxiety for both children and parents. Keeping certain routines—like recycling on Thursdays—has been helpful for my son. If we can maintain some consistency, it helps ease the transition during this chaotic time.
Communicate Your Needs
It’s important to let family and friends know what you need to make the gathering more manageable. Whether it’s a quiet space or assistance, most people are more than willing to help once they understand your situation.
Prepare for Anything
Understand that not every gathering will go as planned. If things start to feel overwhelming, it’s okay to leave early. My husband and I have learned to recognize when it’s time to step back before our kids become overwhelmed.
Cultivate Gratitude
Amid the chaos, it’s vital to appreciate the moments of togetherness, however imperfect. Celebrate the small victories, whether it’s finding a moment to relax or enjoying a funny incident, like when my son swiped a warm roll from a distracted relative. Remember to take some time for yourself once the festivities are over; you deserve it!
For more insights on parenting and home insemination, check out our other blog posts, including one on privacy policies here. For products related to home insemination, visit this link. If you’re looking for reliable information about pregnancy, the NICHD is an excellent resource.
In summary, navigating holiday gatherings with children on the autism spectrum requires a bit of planning and flexibility. By arriving early, bringing familiar foods, hosting when possible, and creating quiet spaces, you can help ensure a smoother experience for everyone involved. Communication and gratitude can also go a long way in making the holidays more enjoyable.