Preparing for Change

Introduce the Holiday Schedule Early:
Use a visual calendar alongside a social story to explain upcoming events. Include details such as who will be there, what activities to expect, how long the event will last, and where they can go to take a break if needed.
Tip: Enhance the social story with images and sound effects for a multi-sensory experience. This approach helps your child more easily understand, process, and remember the schedule and event expectations. Practice scenarios, like greeting relatives or unwrapping gifts, in a calm setting ahead of time.”

Set Clear Expectations:
Communicate with friends and family about your child’s preferences and potential challenges. Share ways they can help create a more inclusive and sensory-friendly environment.

Creating a Sensory-Safe Space

Designate a Quiet Zone:
Create a safe, calm space for your child to retreat to before they feel overwhelmed. Introduce this space ahead of time so they are familiar with it and feel comfortable using it when needed. Stock it with comforting items such as noise-canceling headphones, favorite toys, or a weighted blanket.
Tip: A pop-up tent is a quick and portable solution for creating this space. It naturally provides dim lighting and can easily house cozy items like a bean bag cushion or other calming favorites.

Adapt Decorations:
While festive decorations add cheer, they can also be overwhelming. Use soft lights or avoid flashing ones. Involve your child in decorating so they can actively contribute to creating the space.

Navigating Holiday Events

Plan Short Visits:
Keep events brief to help prevent overstimulation. Arrive early or later to avoid peak noise and crowds. 
Tip: Let hosts know ahead of time that you may need to leave early to support your child. This sets expectations and allows you to participate without added pressure.

Use Code Words:
Agree on a discreet word or signal your child can use to let you know they need a break or want to leave.

Bring Familiar Comforts:
Pack sensory tools, favorite snacks, or a cherished toy to provide consistency and comfort in unfamiliar settings, whether at a community event or someone else’s home.

Choose Events Thoughtfully:
When selecting events, consider smaller gatherings or quieter times to make visits to community spaces or others’ homes more manageable. Look for settings with flexible options, like quieter corners, where your child can take a break if needed.

            This journey isn’t always easy, and challenges are inevitable. Meltdowns, communication barriers, and balancing individual needs within the family can feel overwhelming. It’s important to recognize that perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.

Fostering Family Connection & Supporting Siblings

Encourage Empathy:
Help siblings recognize and respect one another’s unique needs and ways of communicating. Celebrate each child’s individuality and strengths to foster deeper understanding and connection.

Create Special Moments:
Spend one-on-one time with each child to ensure they feel valued and included. Tools like Emotions Puppets can support children in expressing and understanding their feelings. Encourage siblings to discover shared activities and teach them how to engage meaningfully with their autistic sibling—whether it’s joining a favorite game, sharing a beloved story, or participating in a sensory activity. These shared moments foster understanding, strengthen bonds, and build mutual respect. 

By making these thoughtful adjustments, you create a sense of comfort and security that helps all your children navigate both everyday life and special occasions with confidence.