AUTISM AT CHRISTMAS

It is important that parents prepare for this time. They should try to keep the routines as close as possible to those of normal days, trying not to change sleeping and eating schedules. Establishing a pre-list of activities and limits will help children better understand what is expected of them. It is also important for parents to talk with the party family so that they understand the child’s special needs and can help with their behavior.

Also, parents should keep in mind that there are activities for everyone at Christmas. The child can participate in decorating the tree, cooking, singing Christmas carols, doing crafts, etc. If the child does not want to be part of the party, parents can create a safe space for them with relaxing activities such as listening to music, drawing or reading.

Lastly, parents should remember that it is not necessary for their children to go through all the traditional Christmas activities. If there’s something they don’t like or find it too stressful, it’s okay to avoid it. Be that as it may, Christmas will always be a special time to share with loved ones and that will surely be remembered by the whole family.

Although each child has different needs, there are some strategies that can help us have a pleasant Christmas. Above all, it is important to know the child and adapt to it, since each person with autism is different and they will not always respond in the same way to the same strategies. However, the most important thing of all is not that Christmas is perfect as in the ads, but that each family can enjoy it in their own way.

1. Plan ahead: This will help reduce stress and give your child time to get used to the changes.
2. Set limits: It will help the child to know what he can and cannot do, as well as to understand the rules.
3. Give guests time: Guests can be a great source of stress for a child with autism, so it’s important to give them time to get used to each other.
4. Establish a routine: It will help the child feel safe and relaxed during the holiday season.
5. Set realistic expectations: Try not to overload your child with activities, gifts, or other necessary commitments.
6. Make sure the child has plenty of opportunities to relax and have fun: This can be a good time to practice social skills, but it is important that the child has time to rest and have fun.
7. Talk to guests about the child’s needs: Sharing information with guests will help them better understand how to behave and what to expect from the child.
8. Ask the child questions about how they would like to spend Christmas: This will help them feel part of the process and make them feel more secure and relaxed during the celebration.

Another recommendation is to prepare a space for the child to feel comfortable. This includes having toys, books, costumes, or a mat to play on. This will give them a safe and comfortable place to relax and be safe from noise and people. If it is not possible to prepare a space, try to bring some objects from the home of the child with autism so that they feel more comfortable away from home.

It is important to try to maintain the routine and schedule of children with autism during Christmas, so that they feel comfortable and relaxed in the situation. Try to avoid long climbs and descents to the sites, especially if the child is not used to this type of situation. If your child is older, try to involve him in planning trips or activities so that he feels part of it.

Lastly, many families have specific Christmas customs or traditions that they have followed over the years. It is important to clearly explain these traditions to children with autism so that they understand what is happening and what expectations they should have. Make sure you offer them plenty of breaks during the holiday celebration so they feel safe and relaxed.

For example, they can greet guests with a smile and offer appetizers. You can also explain the different phases of the event: first the guests will arrive, then we will sit at the table, have conversations, etc. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with party preparations, so delegating a few tasks can go a long way.

Finally, we must not forget the brothers: it is also a day of celebration for them and they want to enjoy it. A good idea would be to separate the rowdy moments for the other siblings, while another adult and the child with autism do a quieter activity in another room.

Do you want to acquire professional support to regularize these situations with a personalized strategy and tools? Consult our services and we will contact you.