By: Rizza Barcena
Holidays bring excitement, gatherings with family and friends, music, and bright decorations. But for many autistic individuals, this season can also come with challenges. They often experience stronger reactions to sensory input like noise and lights. During busy times like the holidays, it’s important to keep things predictable and provide a supportive environment. To help create a calm, enjoyable, and meaningful holiday experience for everyone, try understanding their needs and making small adjustments like the following:
Manage Sensory Overload
Many autistic individuals are sensitive to sound, light, or touch. Holiday environments can be full of loud music, bright lights, and strong smells, which may feel overwhelming. Creating a quiet space, using headphones, dimming lights, and bringing comfort items can help reduce sensory overload. These adjustments protect emotional well-being and allow autistic individuals to enjoy the season without feeling stressed or overstimulated.
Keep a Predictable Routine
A stable routine provides a strong sense of safety. Predictability reduces anxiety and supports executive functioning. Sudden changes in holiday schedules can feel confusing or stressful. To help maintain structure and reduce worry, create visual schedules, give clear explanations ahead of time, and keep important routines like meals and bedtimes consistent.
Plan Social Interactions
Social gatherings can be overwhelming and tiring. Large groups and sudden conversations may be challenging. Allowing personal boundaries, offering breaks, and choosing structured activities like games or crafts can make social time easier and more enjoyable.
Gift-Giving Made Easier
Gift-giving can lead to stress due to surprises, textures, or noisy environments. Predictable and sensory-friendly approaches can reduce anxiety. Previewing gifts, opening them in a quiet space, and choosing items that feel comfortable or practical can transform gift-giving into a positive experience.
Plan for Crowds
Crowds, bright displays, and noisy events can trigger sensory overload. Reducing sensory input helps autistic individuals stay comfortable. Shopping early, visiting displays during quiet hours, or using a buddy system can make outings easier and more enjoyable.
Holidays can be joyful and inclusive when families understand the sensory, social, and emotional needs of autistic individuals. Showing sensory support and offering gentle expectations is key. With small adjustments, autistic individuals can enjoy Christmas and New Year with less stress and more comfort. Together, we can make the holidays welcoming for everyone.
Happy Holidays!
