autism friendly holiday

Autism-Friendly Holiday Events in Austin, Texas

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How To Enjoy the Holidays When Your Child With Autism Doesn’t

There’s nothing I dread more than a holiday party with my son, who has autism. The music, lights, food, and loud conversations are enough to put both of us into sensory overload. Him because of the stimulation. Me because of his reactions to them. He doesn’t appreciate the overall sentiment of the season; putting all those triggers into one crowded space rarely leads to joy. 

There’s a lot of pressure on parents to make Christmas magical. When you have a neurodivergent family member, celebrations may simply need to look different. Creating new traditions that work well for your whole family can make the season a lot more merry and bright—in a good way. Here are some planning tips that might help. 

austim-friendly holidays

Look for Autism-Friendly Holiday Events in Austin, Texas

Many organizations in Central Texas are becoming more sensitive to the needs of individuals with autism, offering events with adjusted lighting, lower sound levels, and flexible expectations. Look for terms like “sensory-friendly” or “accessibility” on websites. Your child’s ABA therapist might also have recommendations for fun things to do this time of year. 

  • Caring Santa—Some malls host a “Caring Santa” experience that offers a Santa photo without the loud music and long lines. You can visit SantaCares.WhereIsSanta.com to schedule a Caring Santa meeting at Barton Creek Square Mall in Austin, Texas.  
  • Adapted Performances—Ballet companies and theaters may offer performances where kids don’t have to sit still or stay silent. Some even adjust lighting and sound. The Nutcracker performance in Austin, Texas offers sensory friendly viewing opportunities through various charitable organizations. 
  • Sensory Friendly Films—Select theaters play movies with lights up and sound down, also offering opportunities for children with autism and other special needs to watch a film on the big screen. Christmas would be a great time to go to one of these special screenings.
    • Nearby AMC Locations offer Sensory Friendly Viewings on the Second and Fourth Saturdays of the Month:
      • AMC Lakeline 9: Cedar Park, TX
      • AMC Barton Creek Square 14: Austin, TX
      • AMC DINE-IN Tech Ridge 10: Austin, TX
  • Holiday Parties Hosted by Local Organizations—Depending on your city, nonprofits or school districts may offer unique party experiences for kids with autism, with reduced crowds and stimulation. Visit the recreation page on the Autism Society of Texas website for more information on celebrations in Austin. 

If you can’t find an adapted option in your area, you may be courageous enough to try something small and manageable. If that’s you, go for it! Bring a sensory kit of your child’s favorite calming items and plan an exit strategy in case things go awry. Oh, and be prepared to graciously explain some of your child’s challenges to someone you meet in public.

Create Autism-Friendly Holiday Traditions at Home

If leaving home for a public holiday celebration feels like too much, I get it. I’ve been there. Sometimes, the effort required is far more than the joy you get in return. Instead, create custom traditions that match your child’s interests and your family’s capacity. 

  • Host a Simple Holiday Gathering—Invite a few close friends or family members over to your home instead of venturing out. It doesn’t have to be big and elaborate. Make it a relaxed get-together. Keep food familiar and expectations flexible. 
  • Adjust Decorations—If your child loves Christmas lights and decorations, go for it and break out all the tinsel and plastic ornaments you can find. If decorations feel overwhelming, keep things calm and minimal. 
  • Do Christmas Cookies and Crafts… Without the Expectations—If your kid wants to eat all of the frosting and sprinkles instead of decorating cookies, that’s still a memory. Let the activity unfold however works best. Or, try creating a Holiday Sensory Box for your child.
  • Drive-Thru Christmas Lights—Being able to drive through a light show or neighborhood, allowing your child to watch from inside the car, is an excellent alternative to walking through a Winter Wonderland set up by the city Parks and Rec department. 
  • Adapt Gift-Giving—Some kids adore opening presents; others don’t care. Adjust as needed. At our home, we use gift bags because my son loves pulling out tissue paper. And if the gift is a new version of an old toy? Even better. 

As you shift traditions, you may need to explain the changes to close family members. It might not be as apparent to them, but if you can share why your child needs accommodations, they’ll hopefully be more supportive than you expect. 

Ways You Can Stay Grounded as a Parent Caregiver

Over the years, I’ve learned that how regulated I am influences my child’s regulation. When I’m tense, he feels it. When I’m calm and present, he often relaxes too. So creating a holiday we both enjoy means tending to myself as well. 

  • Find Ways Not to Cook—One year, my family decided to go to a Thanksgiving brunch and skip the cooking. I felt guilty at first, but seeing everyone enjoy something different from the buffet made me realize it was perfect. And no dishes either. 
  • Make a Calming Christmas Playlist—Choose favorite songs that ground you. Quiet carols, acoustic covers, anything soothing. It sets the tone for the whole house. 
  • Shop Without Your Kids—If possible, shop during therapy or school hours. Avoiding crowds and kids in tow protects everyone’s peace. 

Whatever meaningful ways you find to celebrate, remember: you are doing your best. Your child’s BCBA can help you weave foundational skills into holiday moments, from practicing waiting in line to giving gifts. Even imperfect memories become stepping stones for the connection and growth of your child and your whole family. 

What are your questions?

We value your feedback! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Your input helps us continue providing insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.

If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and follow us for more insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.

Interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA? 

Connect with BrightPath Behavior today. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and support your journey.

Kathy McClelland is a freelance copywriter and marketer specializing in pediatric healthcare and special education brands based in Austin, Texas. Before becoming a mom, her work included promoting medical journals and online publications for the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as parenting books for Tyndale House Publishers. When her second son was born with a rare genetic condition, she was thrust into the world of special needs parenting. Her website is kathymcopywriting.com.

 

Disclaimer: While I am a consultant writing on behalf of BrightPath Behavior, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. My goal is to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences, as well as interviews conducted with the staff at BrightPath Behavior.

 

Note: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and does not replace professional advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or therapist for personalized guidance.

fall activities

Managing Sensory Overload During Fall Activities

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Supporting Your Child with Autism Through an Enjoyable and Sensory-Friendly Season

As the leaves change color and pumpkin-scented everything fills the air, fall brings a world of exciting opportunities for family bonding. From pumpkin patches to Halloween festivities, the season is rich with sensory experiences. 

However, for children with autism, these activities can sometimes lead to sensory overload—a state where the brain is overwhelmed by too much sensory input, causing discomfort, distress, or challenging behaviors. 

The good news is that there are many ways to prepare and help so your child can enjoy pumpkin patches, hayrides, Halloween parties, and more.

fall activities

Understanding Sensory Overload

Children with autism often experience the world differently. They may be hypersensitive (very sensitive) or hyposensitive (less sensitive) to sights, sounds, touches, tastes, or smells. For example, a costume’s scratchy fabric or a sudden loud doorbell can feel painful or frightening, while bright strobe lights or unexpected noises at a Halloween party can lead to anxiety or a meltdown. 

Even fun activities like carving pumpkins or attending a block party can be stressful if they don’t know what to expect. It helps to remember that sensory overload is a physiological response. Your child’s brain is simply trying to process a lot of new information at once. By preparing ahead, we can ease that burden.

Families should know they’re not alone. Research indicates that most children on the autism spectrum exhibit sensory processing differences. In practice, this means what feels exciting to one child (e.g., flashy lights or loud music) can feel overwhelming to another. Recognizing these challenges is the first step to a great Halloween: we can adjust the environment and build skills so the day is fun and not frightening.

Know Your Child’s Sensory Profile

Every child is different. Some may seek out sensory input (like jumping in leaves), while others may avoid it (like being startled by loud Halloween decorations). Use what you know about your child’s preferences to plan accordingly. A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) approach can help you identify what triggers your child and what they find soothing.

Tip: Make a list of what your child enjoys vs. what they avoid (e.g., loud noises, strong smells, crowded places) and use it to guide your activity choices.

Use Visual Supports and Social Stories

Preparing your child for upcoming activities can reduce anxiety and increase predictability. Visual schedules and social stories are antecedent interventions that can help children understand what to expect in their daily lives. Children with autism are often visual learners, so using pictures and schedules can help make sense of an event. 

For example, you might create a visual schedule or a “first-then” board before a fall outing, such as pictures showing “First we will look for pumpkins, then we’ll have a snack” or a simple picture of the pumpkin patch with a checkmark. Such charts remind the child what to expect and in what order.

Tip: Before visiting a pumpkin patch, use a simple social story with pictures to explain what they will see, hear, and do.

Teach Coping Skills and Safe Breaks

Help your child learn how to ask for a break or use calming strategies when overwhelmed. Teaching them self-advocacy skills helps promote self-regulation and reduces the likelihood of meltdowns.

Tip: Use ABA techniques, such as functional communication training (FCT), to teach your child to request breaks using words, signs, or pictures (e.g., “I need quiet,” “All done”).

Practice Activities in Low-Stress Settings

If your child struggles with transitions or unpredictable environments, try practicing the activity in a quiet setting first.

Tip: Visit the pumpkin patch on a weekday morning when it’s less crowded, or create a mini “fall fest” in your backyard with sensory-friendly activities.

Reinforce Positive Participation

Use positive reinforcement to encourage participation and reduce challenging behaviors. Catch your child being successful—even in small steps.

Tip: Say, “Great job using your words when you wanted a break!” and offer a preferred reward, such as extra time on a favorite activity or a small treat.

Modify Activities to Reduce Sensory Overload

Don’t feel pressured to do fall “the traditional way.” Modify experiences so your child can participate at their comfort level.

Ideas:

  • Use noise-canceling headphones during parades or festivals.
  • Bring familiar comfort items, like a favorite toy or blanket.
  • Dress in a costume that is comfortable for Halloween.
  • Celebrate holidays at home with close family before trying large gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Fall should be fun, not overwhelming. By using ABA strategies to plan ahead, modify the environment, and teach coping skills, you can create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable season for your child. Remember: success doesn’t mean doing everything. It means doing what works best for your family.

Happy Fall from BrightPath Behavior!

 

Litzy Vivas graduated from Texas State University in 2022 with her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. She is pursuing a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis at Purdue University, working toward becoming a BCBA. Beginning her ABA journey in 2023 in San Antonio, she was later given the opportunity to support her community through BrightPath Behavior in 2024. She chose the field of ABA because she’s passionate about helping children reach their full potential. Litzy believes each child’s progress reflects the dedication and hard work of both the child and the family. She loves being a part of that support system and witnessing the life-changing impact of ABA therapy. A fun fact about her is that she has two cats, Frankie and Ivy.

sensory activities autism

Spring Break Sensory Activities for Your Child with Autism

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Spring Break is around the corner. If you don’t have plans get away, you may want to do some fun sensory activities at home with your child. Here are some ideas to keep sensory kids engaged and learning. 

Sight-Based Sensory Activities & Touch-Based Sensory Activities 

Outdoor activities that emphasize visual experiences, like scavenger hunts, can be a blast, especially for children with autism focused on sensory engagement. They offer chances to enhance both receptive and expressive language skills. Also, scavenger hunts promote exploration and can be tailored to various communication abilities. You can create spring-themed sensory bins filled with vibrant items such as pebbles, plants, plastic bugs, and pastel sprinkles for indoor visual sensory play. These bins are not only entertaining but also help in developing senses, motor skills, and social interactions. They can be particularly beneficial for kids who struggle with sensory regulation and can help lessen sensitivities to certain textures. 

sensory activities autism   

Chalk Art.

Another idea is to use sidewalk chalk, which gives kids with autism a fun way to express themselves and work on their fine motor skills. It’s a great mix of creativity, sensory play, and physical growth, letting them draw some shapes and colors.

sensory activities autism

Smell-Based Sensory Activities

Kids with autism can benefit from activities focusing on smell, as they offer a chance to explore their senses and get their olfactory system working. Getting into different scents around them can be a great way to engage their sense of smell. You can encourage them to sniff various aromas in places like nature, at home, or while out and about. For example, taking a stroll through a garden or park lets them enjoy the smells of flowers, trees, and grass. You could also try using scented candles or essential oils with different fragrances at home or even take a trip to a bakery to enjoy those delicious baking smells.

Taste-Based Sensory Activities 

You can set up a guessing game for taste-focused activities where kids taste various items, such as fresh fruits, chocolates, pretzels, leafy greens, carrots, raisins, or mint. Chatting about the different smells and flavors helps kids learn to identify tastes like salty, sweet, bitter, and sour, which boosts their language skills and executive function. 

sensory activities autism

Sound-Based Sensory Activities 

Spring is a great time to dive into sound-based sensory activities. These fun activities can boost fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and language development, making them both enjoyable and beneficial. One easy and entertaining sound-based sensory project is making Easter egg shakers. All you need are plastic Easter eggs or small containers and some filling materials like rice, beans, lentils, rocks, pebbles, marbles, sand, Legos, or beads, and the kids can help you create these. Then encourage them to listen to the different sounds each shaker makes. You can also use phrases like “above your head,” “behind your back,” and “under your legs” to help them learn about prepositions.

sensory activities autism

References

Dr. S. Vishnu Priya. (2020). Olfactory Activities for Kids with Autism – AutiSpark. https://www.autispark.com/olfactory-activities-for-kids-with-autism/ 

Adam Goodrich. (2020). 5 Fun Springtime Sensory Activities to Engage All Your Senses! 

https://www.coraphysicaltherapy.com/five-fun-springtime-sensory-activities-to-en gage-all-your-senses/

 

Stephanie Alvarez, RBT, is in the BCBA Apprentice Program at BrightPath Behavior and works at the clinic in Katy, TX. Upon her initial introduction to the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA), she confessed she had little understanding of the subject. However, with the guidance of an exceptional mentor, Stephanie quickly became acquainted with the principles of ABA. This experience ignited a passion in her, mainly because she recognized the profound impact that being an ABA therapist can have on clients.

holiday gift ideas for kids with autism

Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids with Autism

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Parent Perspective: What to Buy Your Child this Year

This Christmas, I’ll buy my son yet another replica of his favorite toy—just like I do every year. He is obsessed with what we call “ball within a ball.” To him, it makes the most magnificent sound when he shakes it over and over again. For the rest of us, it’s a sound we’ve grown accustomed to—part of the background noise of our home. Although I’ll admit, it can get a little grating during road trips. Still, it’s the perfect gift for him, year after year, bringing pure joy every time he opens it. 

As much as my son will experience delight opening (probably his fifteenth) “ball within a ball” this year, I wish I could find other gifts he’d genuinely enjoy. Gift shopping for kids with autism can be challenging. It often takes time for them to warm up to a new toy; some toys are rejected altogether.

In this blog, I’ve rounded up ideas for sensory-friendly toys and developmentally engaging games that might bring joy to your child this holiday season. While they may not replace their favorite stim toy, these gifts could help with sensory challenges and encourage meaningful play. 

holiday gift ideas for kids with autism

Gifts for sensory seekers.

Pod Swing:

If you have a sensory seeker in your home, you may want to try one of these swings. Our favorite is the pod swing. It provides more input around your child’s upper body compared to a platform swing but not so much compression that it becomes difficult to get in and out of. Another bonus is its versatility–you can use it both indoors and outdoors, depending on the season and your child’s preferences. We absolutely love this swing!

pod swing

OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat Cotton Child Hammock Chair for Indoor and Outdoor use. 

 

Harkla Hug:

For kids constantly leaning against you or pressing their bodies into pillows and blankets around the house, the Harkla Hug is an excellent alternative. My son went through a phase where we would climb right inside it after school and start shaking his beloved “ball within a ball.” It gave him a way to decompress, much like how I unwind by scrolling through my phone. It’s a truly great gift!

Harkla Hug Sensory Chair 48″ – Inflatable Sensory Pod for Kids- Sensory Toys for Children- Therapeutic Compression Toys | Kids 2 to 6 | Pea Pod and Air Pump

Stocking stuffers for the constant fidgeter.

If you have a child whose hands are in constant motion, these toys are worth checking out! Silly Putty is a classic that never goes out of style. Wiki Sticks are a fun, newer option—bendable wax sticks that can be shaped into endless designs. Both offer limitless possibilities for creativity and provide the perfect outlet for fidgety hands, helping your child stay engaged and focused. 

Silly Putty:

Crayola Original Silly Putty Packaging May Vary (Pack of 6)

 

Wiki Sticks:

Wikki Stix for Doodlers – Kid’s Travel Essential: Portable Creativity On-The-Go! Pack of 24 Wikki Stix in Neon and Primary Colors. Made in USA ! 3 & Up.

The gift of sleep all night long. 

If your child needs their bedroom to be just so right before bed, this could be the perfect present. The Tranquil Turtle combines a nightlight, sound machine, and sensory toy all in one. For kids who rely on a sound machine or nightlight to wind down, this adds extra comfort and fun to their bedtime routine. We don’t have one in our house, but it’s definitely on my list!

Tranquil Turtle

Fun gifts for helping manage big emotions. 

If you have a child with big feelings, a stress ball or pinch putty can provide a helpful outlet for expressing their emotions. I especially love these fruit-shaped stress balls because they serve their purpose and teach kids about different foods. Unlike most stress balls, these are specifically designed for young children. 

Mindful maze toys are another fantastic option—they offer a calming distraction and help fuel a sense of regulation as your child traces the patterns with their finger. All of these make excellent stocking stuffers!

Stress Ball:

Schylling NeeDoh Groovy Fruit – Sensory Fidget Toy – Multiple Shapes – Ages 3 to Adult (Pack of 1)

Pinch Putty:

Pinch Me Therapy Dough – Holistic Aromatherapy Stress Relieving Putty – 10 Ounce Spa Scent

Mindful Maze Boards:

pod swing

Mindful Maze Boards, Learn Breathing Patterns, Mindfulness for Kids Anxiety Relief, Tactile Sensory Toys, Play Therapy Toys, Social Emotional Learning Activities, Calm Down Corner Supplies

Presents for the stuffed animal lover. 

If your child can’t go anywhere without a stuffie, why not introduce them to a plush version of Julia from Sesame Street? Julia is a character with autism, making her a familiar and fun companion and an excellent opportunity to start conversations with your child about their own autism and the similarities they may share with Julia. 

Julia Doll from Sesame Street:

Just Play Sesame Street Big Hugs 18-inch Large Plush Julia Doll, Soft Fabric, Pretend Play, Kids Toys for Ages 18 Month

Repeat gifts for the creature of habit.

If you’re still unsure about what to get your child this holiday season, consider reaching out to your child’s ABA therapists or teachers. They might have noticed something your child has gravitated toward that will give you a new idea—a therapy toy or a tool they’re thinking about introducing in future therapy sessions. Over the years, my son’s therapist have given us some fantastic ideas we would’ve never thought of on our own. 

As you shop for you child this year, my biggest piece of advice is: don’t overthink it. Go ahead and buy the same gift you’ve been giving year after year. Even if the novelty has worn off for you, chances are your child will be as thrilled as ever. Seeing their face light up with joy as they open yet another version of their favorite toy makes it all worthwhile. 

What are your gift ideas?

We love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Your input helps us continue providing insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.

If you found this post helpful, please like, share, and follow us for more insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.

Interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA? 

Connect with BrightPath Behavior today. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and support your journey.

 

Kathy McClelland is a freelance copywriter and marketer for pediatric healthcare and special education brands from Austin, Texas. Before becoming a mom, her work included promoting medical journals and online publications for the American Academy of Pediatrics and parenting books for Tyndale House Publishers. When her second son was born with a rare genetic condition, she was thrust into the world of special needs parenting. Her website is kathymcopywriting.com.

Disclaimer: While I am a consultant writing on behalf of BrightPath Behavior, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. My goal is to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences, as well as interviews conducted with the staff at BrightPath Behavior.

Note: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and does not replace professional advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or therapist for personalized guidance.