Tag Archive for: holidays

life post-holidays

How to Support Kids with Autism Through Holiday Letdown

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Parent Perspective: Navigating Life Post-Holidays

The holidays are a lot. For autism parents, December is filled with constant planning and preparation in hopes that our children can navigate every holiday party, gift exchange, and Christmas pageant with ease. We take steps to ensure our kids don’t experience sensory overload or consume too much sugar, while in the midst of it all, we want to savor the joy and magic ourselves.

Seeing the holidays through our children’s eyes—the wonder of visiting Santa or the delight of opening another favorite gift—is a tremendous blessing to us as parents. Yet, as magical and stressful as the season can be, there’s a shared sense of sadness once it’s over. Another season has passed, and we’re faced with the transition back to the routines of daily life with autism. 

life post-holidays

While our kids often thrive on routine—even back to familiar schedules—it can still be challenging. That sense of holiday letdown is real, for both parents and kids. To help you and your child adjust to life post-holidays, here are some practical strategies for easing into 2025 with confidence and peace. 

Reestablish routines gradually.

If you can take a couple of days to transition back to your routine, the adjustment will likely go much more smoothly. Small, gradual changes can make a big difference. 

  • Purge the holiday treats: Clear out leftover holiday sweets and reintroduce healthier options your child will enjoy. 
  • Ease back into therapy: Schedule therapy sessions before school starts again if possible. Ask your child’s therapists to include time to pair with your child and process their holiday experiences. 
  • Shift wake-up times: If your child has been sleeping during break, start waking them up earlier, inching closer to their regular schedule. 
  • Adjust bedtimes: Begin putting your child to bed closer to their typical school night routine. 

I know these changes are hard to make as a parent. I often have the best intentions of putting my son to bed early, but when we’re cuddling on the couch at the end of the day, I don’t want to interrupt a sweet moment of connection. To be completely honest, I also don’t want to deal with a possible meltdown over going to bed. 

If you need additional support with transitions, consider using a visual calendar or social story to help your child envision the return to their daily routine. These can set clear expectations for what’s ahead and help ease anxiety about upcoming changes. 

Plan for downtime.

Before they return to school.

The holiday hustle can be both joyful and overstimulating. After things have quieted down, plan some intentional downtime to help your child decompress. Give them opportunities to spend extended periods of time at home, where they feel most safe and loved. During this free, unstructured time, encourage them to:

  • Play with the new toys they received over the holidays.
  • Rewatch their favorite Christmas movies. 
  • Use sensory tools to help them reregulate, such as swings, crash pads, and stim toys.

After they return to school.

Once your child returns to school, avoid filling your evenings with too many activities. Overscheduling them, whether therapy sessions, extracurriculars, or even errands make challenging behaviors more apt to occur. The transition back to school and therapy often places increased demands on your child, and they may need more time to adjust. Allow them the space to unwind in their familiar environment where they can decompress after a busy day. 

Create a soothing environment at home. I find making home cozy and inviting in the winter months, helps our whole family, especially my autistic son. Once the Christmas tree comes down things can feel barren and depressing, but you can still have a fire in the fireplace, keep the lights low, cover yourselves in weighted blankets, and play soft music signaling to your child that it’s time to slow down. 

Reminisce about the holiday highlights

It’s important for kids with autism to have outlets to process and express their feelings about big events, same as all of us. Whether your child is speaking or uses an AAC device, create opportunties of them to talk about the holidays. 

For example, after significant events in our family, we add special memories to my son’s AAC device under a page called “Life Events.” This allows him to revisit moments like attending summer camp, dressing up for Halloween, or spending time with cousins and grandparents during Christmas in another state. By doing this, we gain insight into what’s important to him and better prepare him for future trips and events. 

Here are some questions to help guide your conversations: 

  • People they saw: Who did you spend time with? Grandparents, cousins, friends? 
  • Special events: What activities did you enjoy the most? Baking cookies, visiting Santa, opening gifts?
  • Feelings: How do you feel now that the holidays are over? Happy, sad, relieved? 

It’s okay if your child is repetitive or hyperfocused on one thing in particular. As they process their experience they may begin to perseverate, but remember how important it is to give them a way to talk about what they loved, or hated, about this time of year. 

Plan something to look forward to

Transitions are easier when there’s something exciting to look forward to. While returning to routines can feel bittersweet, creating new events or goals can help both you and your child shift focus to what’s ahead.

Here are some ways to anticipate new things in the coming year:

  • Mark it on your calendar: Visually highlight upcoming events your child might enjoy like Valentine’s Day or a fun family outing.
  • Start a new tradition: January can feel like a dull month, but you can make it special. For instance, plan a “Winter Fun Day” where you play in the snow or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate together. 
  • Set small goals: Write down a few achievable goals for 2025, such as learning a new skill or earning a reward for completing daily tasks. Post these in a visible spot, like the kitchen, to remind your child of what they’re working toward.

If you’re unsure of what to look forward to, ask your child’s ABA clinician for suggestions. They may have creative ideas for incorporating fun, motivating activities into therapy sessions. The new year is a great time to introduce new approaches to help your child reach their goals while keeping them engaged and excited. 

A fresh start for the new year

As hard as the holidays are, it’s also hard to face when they are finished. I have mixed feelings about going back to real life after wearing PJs till noon, shopping sales, and going out to the movies. For kids with autism, the adjustment can feel especially challenging and may bring out some problematic behaviors. With patience, preparation, and a little creative redirection, you can help your child ease into 2025 with hope. As you guide them, don’t forget to celebrate the small victories along the way—both theirs and yours. It may not be exactly how you envisioned but it can still be good. 

Here’s to a fresh start and a happy new year for you and your family! 

What are your ideas and 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 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.

Photo used with permission by the blog author.

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.

5 New Year’s Resolutions for Parents of Children with Autism

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A Parent’s Perspective: Reflecting on special needs parenting and looking toward the new year

For many of us raising children with autism, our goals for the new year may differ greatly from our parenting peers. Losing 10 pounds or striving for a promotion at work likely isn’t our primary focus. Even simple resolutions, such as timely birthday cards or daily flossing, may not align with our journey. It’s not that healthy habits and new challenges aren’t important to us; it’s simply that everything in our world is overshadowed by autism.

Autism parenting can be all-consuming at times. As the world reflects on 2023 and anticipates what 2024 will bring, we may feel weary. We understand that we have little control over our child’s day-to-day struggles, so we approach the new year with caution and a lot of ABA therapy! 

Just because our lives differ from those of our friends and family does not mean we shouldn’t engage in reflection and goal-setting. However, it’s crucial to do so with an appropriate mindset — one of self-compassion and realistic expectations for both ourselves and our child. This blog post aims to guide you in looking back and ahead with hope.

new years autism parenting

New Year’s Reflection Questions: Looking Back on the Wins and Losses of the Past Year

Each year, my inbox overflows with New Year’s reflection guides—most likely due to the number of self-help gurus I follow. I appreciate their willingness to provide a list of guided questions to help me reflect on the past year’s highs and lows. Honestly, without a little nudge, I might not take the time to look back.

As parents of children with autism, we constantly juggle tasks, manage schedules, put out fires, constantly redirect our children, and are always trying to think ahead. So, I’m offering you three simple reflection questions this year. I’ve found them incredibly useful, not just during the holidays but in any period of change or transition.

1. What Achievements Can You Celebrate?

Identify the wins from the past year, no matter how small. This question prompts you to recall the successes you and your child experienced. Sometimes we are so immersed in the day-to-day tasks that we miss the growth happening before us. 

Maybe you found a routine that brought joy or peace to your child, or a new therapist that worked wonders. Every little milestone your child meets should not be overlooked or taken for granted. 

2. What Were Your Biggest Challenges and Low Points?

Acknowledging the difficulties can be challenging, but it’s essential to identify them in order to learn from them. This question also allows you to see patterns that may have emerged throughout the year. 

Did your child struggle with a certain skill or behavior consistently? Did you find yourself feeling burnt out or struggling with self-care? It’s useful to know what didn’t work so that you can learn from these experiences and make necessary changes. 

3. What Do You Want to Carry Forward into the New Year?

As we usher in the new year, it’s not just about letting go but also recognizing what we want to keep. What are the things that bring you comfort or joy that you want to consciously carry into the new year? It could be as simple as your daily cup of coffee. (Me!) Recognizing these elements will help you maintain a sense of continuity and stability through the changing times.

Typically, I am somewhat unsure about what to do with my reflections from past years. However, I have developed a practice of jotting them down in my journal. As I flip through the pages over the course of the year, these reflections serve as powerful reminders of my journey, as well as that of my child. 

It’s important to remember that as much as we might wish for stability, change is a constant part of life. Having a record of the triumphs, the setbacks, and the non-negotiables provides a sense of grounding for me. It is my hope that adopting such a practice could offer the same benefit to you.

Charting a Path Forward: Five Possible New Year’s Resolutions for Parents of Children with Autism

As we enter the new year, let’s explore five potential New Year’s resolutions that can empower parents of children with autism. These New Year’s resolutions are designed to foster a nurturing and growth-oriented approach for both you and your child without being too overly ambitious.

1. Seek and Accept Help

Before you dismiss this idea, know that I empathize with your struggle. Finding help for a child who perceives and interacts with the world differently is challenging. It can be incredibly hard to secure the respite care needed. There have been seasons in my life when I juggled work, caring for my son with autism, managing his medical procedures, and striving to provide a somewhat normal teenage experience for my other child. It’s a hefty load. Caregivers aren’t always available, and even if they were, affording their services on top of other therapies can be daunting.

This new year, I challenge you to explore local resources and non-profits that may offer support. If your child is enrolled in Early Childhood Intervention (ECI), there may be funds available to help pay for a babysitter—allowing you to run errands or enjoy some leisure time with a friend. Many local churches provide a babysitting night out for parents of children with special needs.

Assistance doesn’t always have to be in the form of childcare. If your neighbor offers to mow your lawn or a friend wants to deliver lasagna, accept the help with open arms! Make a conscious decision to say ‘yes’ when help presents itself.

2. Reconnect with Your Passions and Loved Ones

Parents of special needs children often sideline their own desires and needs, and understandably so. If your child has autism, their needs can be extensive. However, this doesn’t mean you should cease nurturing your own interests and relationships.

Consider rekindling connections with someone special in your life, perhaps an old friend you haven’t had the opportunity to catch up with in a while. I do acknowledge there can be an emotional toll in maintaining connections with friends from our previous lives, primarily when these relationships incite feelings of comparison. If this resonates with you, perhaps it’s time to cultivate bonds with individuals who share similar life experiences.

One effective way I’ve found to build relationships is through shared hobbies, whether it’s a book club or hiking. Support groups can also be immensely helpful for parents of children with autism. Although not everyone you meet will become your best friend, you’re likely to find common ground that’s beneficial for your current situation. Remember, this journey is yours, and nurturing your interests and relationships can provide much-needed balance and support.

3. Choose a Sustainable Self-Care or Self-Compassion Focus

Commit to an ongoing and sustainable self-care activity. The very mention of this might stir up some strong emotions, as it certainly did for me over the years. An initial reaction might be to dismiss the idea, thinking that a pedicure or a bubble bath aren’t going to solve the problems at hand. It’s true, they won’t. However, understanding the difference between self-care and self-compassion can redefine this perspective.

Self-care can often be an indulgent and temporary escape, while self-compassion is a lasting, ongoing investment. A sustainable self-compassion activity can replenish your energy reservoirs, enabling you to continue on this challenging journey of parenting a child with autism with resilience. You won’t regret making such an investment.

For instance, my personal self-care ritual involves reading a good book at the end of the day, allowing me to wind down and transition to sleep. I also find it helpful to walk the dog every morning, which gets me out of the house and gives me a little more perspective on my day.

4. Evaluate Your Child’s Therapy and School Setting

It’s easy to put school and therapy routines on autopilot, but it’s beneficial to take a closer look at your child’s IEP and therapy goals. Perhaps everything is going well and there’s no need for change. However, this might be the year for big changes.

Every year, for my child’s annual ARD, I write a parent report—a simple one-page document that highlights what’s working well and what’s not. It’s akin to the reflection questions posed at the start of this blog. I also detail his strengths and interests, as well as my aspirations for him in the coming school year. Why not do the same for your child at the beginning of the year? And if there are challenges you want to address in the coming year, brainstorm some action items on how to tackle those too.

The same principle applies to therapy. Do you need to take a break from therapy or add a new type of therapy? If your child is enrolled in ABA, consider evaluating their treatment plan. Remember, you’re an integral part of your child’s team. If you are a client at ABA Connect, consider talking to your child’s BCBA about some of your goals for the coming year. Your child’s BCBA is sure to have some ideas for how to make progress—they’re here to support you on your journey.

If the list of things your child needs help with feels overwhelming, try focusing on one significant challenge to address. It could be the most pressing problem or the one you’re most likely able to solve. The point is to select an area that, when improved, will enhance not just your child’s life but yours too.

5. Embrace Acceptance: Acknowledging Your Child and Your Circumstances

Parenting a child with autism can be an isolating journey and certainly not one most people would consciously choose. The life you envisioned for your child may look starkly different now. As you navigate through this journey, you may grapple with accepting not only your child’s unique attributes but also the additional challenges that autism brings.

Achieving full acceptance of your circumstances may seem daunting, but it is entirely possible to accept your child for the wonderfully unique individual they are. If you’re not yet at this point, consider making this your resolution. 

And by all means, let go of any guilt or apology you may feel compelled to give for things beyond your control, such as your child’s behaviors. Embracing a mindset of surrender and acceptance could indeed be the most liberating approach to usher in the new year.

As parents of children with different needs, it’s not that we lack hopes and dreams for the year ahead. Rather, we are wary of having these aspirations shattered. We’ve learned to be pragmatic and tread carefully when the calendar flips.

So, now that you have some ideas, what will you plan to implement in the coming year?

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. If you found this post helpful, please feel free to like, share, and follow us for more insightful content on autism and ABA therapy.

If a positive, play-based approach to ABA appeals to you, we invite you to reach out to ABA Connect. The friendly team at ABA Connect is always ready to help answer your questions.

Please keep in mind that while I am a consultant writing on behalf of ABA Connect, 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 ABA Connect.

Holiday Planning that Makes Room for Autism

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A Parent’s Perspective: No more holiday stress

The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for parents and caregivers of children with autism, it can also bring unique challenges as well as full-on stress. I think the pressures of the holiday season make special needs parenting ten times harder than the rest of the year. 

The sensory overload, crowded gatherings, and disruptions to routines can make this time of year incredibly overwhelming for your child and yourself. At ABA Connect, we want every child and their family to enjoy the festivities while considering the specific needs of individuals on the autism spectrum. As a parent, I know this is easier said than done. In this blog, we’ll explore a few proactive tips to help your holiday season go smoothly.

holiday stress autism

Sensory Challenges and Solutions

Preparing for Loud Music and Flashing Lights

The bright lights and blaring music that often accompany holiday events can be overwhelming for children with autism. To help your child navigate these sensory situations, it’s essential to have strategies in place. By now, you probably understand your child’s unique sensitivities well. 

Pack sensory tools such as:

  • Headphones
  • Sunglasses
  • Comfort Items
  • Essential Oils
  • Weighted Blanket or Vest

An occupational therapist may develop a personalized sensory diet for your child, but Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques can also help. 

ABA Connect offers individualized strategies to help children cope and enjoy stimulating environments. By gradually exposing your child to sensory stimuli in a controlled manner, they can build tolerance over time. For example, start playing soft holiday music at home before gradually increasing the volume. Or, let your child be in charge of turning on holiday lights at home. 

Setting Clear Expectations for Large Family Gatherings

Crowded family events during the holidays can be challenging for children with autism who struggle with social interactions or feel uncomfortable around unfamiliar faces. 

Setting expectations is key:

  • Decide on an arrival and departure time
  • Brainstorm topics to talk about or avoid talking about
  • Give your child a list, or pictures, of people who will be at the gathering
  • Create a visual schedule of events
  • Take a break

ABA Connect recognizes the importance of social skill development and aims to make family gatherings a positive experience. Our therapists work closely with families to create plans that address specific social challenges. Through targeted interventions, such as role-playing or visual supports, we help children develop appropriate social behaviors and engage meaningfully with relatives during these special occasions and all year long.

Traveling with Ease

Making Traveling Smoother

Traveling itself can pose unique difficulties for individuals on the autism spectrum due to changes in routine and unfamiliar environments. Similar to how you help your child with sensory overload, you can implement some of the same techniques with travel, such as headphones, snacks, and favorite toys. By using visual schedules, social stories, and other ABA techniques, we can help prepare your child for the journey ahead. These tools assist in reducing anxiety and increasing predictability by providing step-by-step guidance about what to expect during the trip.

As a parent, I allow my child large amounts of screen time on road trips. A tablet, video games, or a movie playing in the car or airplane is an excellent way to pass the time. Having the technology to support children during travel is a gift to your child and the rest of the family members traveling with you!

Holiday Meals and Picky Eating

Tips on Picky Eating During Holiday Meals

Holiday meals can be filled with a wide variety of dishes, but for children with autism who struggle with selective eating or sensory sensitivities, navigating these gatherings can be challenging. At ABA Connect, we address feeding issues head-on and promote a positive relationship with food.

Our team of therapists employs evidence-based techniques to gradually expand your child’s food preferences. By introducing new foods in a non-threatening manner and utilizing reinforcement strategies, we work towards expanding their diet and ensuring they can participate fully in holiday meals.

Foods to avoid or replace with a healthier option:

  • Candy
  • Sweets and sugar
  • Artificial colors or flavors
  • Caffeine
  • Gluten (if your child is gluten-free)
  • Dairy (if your child is lactose intolerant)

Plan around holiday foods you know will affect your child’s behavior or mood as much as possible. Holiday treats can cause inflammation or constipation, something many of our kids struggle with on an ongoing basis. Eat clean, especially if your child has food sensitivities or allergies that prevent them from indulging in holiday treats, and plan to offer alternatives you know they enjoy

Sensory Tips for Classic Holiday Traditions

Enjoying Holiday Traditions with Sensory Tips

Classic holiday activities like decorating the tree, wrapping presents, and opening presents can present sensory challenges for individuals on the autism spectrum. However, with the right strategies, these traditions can become enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.

To make these activities more sensory-friendly, consider breaking them down into smaller steps and providing visual supports such as checklists or social stories. ABA Connect offers tailored approaches that account for individual differences while ensuring each child can engage in these beloved traditions.

Advocating for Your Child During the Holidays

One of the most challenging things for me as a parent around the holiday is promoting understanding of autism to my family and friends. Unless I explain it to them, they don’t know how difficult traditional holiday parties, foods, and stimuli can be for my child and me. It isn’t easy to talk about autism, but choosing to do so can make a difference in your overall experience of the season. Sometimes, tension can arise when a family member offers unsolicited advice. Have you ever noticed people who don’t understand autism are often all too willing to provide advice on how to raise your child? 

Dealing with Unwanted Advice from Family and Friends

Be Honest

First, thank your friend or family member for trying to help. Then, state you aren’t looking for parenting advice. If the person seems receptive, use it as an opportunity to educate them on autism and why your child behaves the way they do. Education is advocacy!

Use Humor

Cracking a joke, no matter how sarcastic can help ease the tension you feel when family members are not accepting of your child’s behaviors. 

Take a Break

Explain to friends and family that your child sometimes needs to take a break or move away from too much activity. Be sure to say it’s nothing anyone did; it’s just the nature of autism to sometimes need to retreat. And hey, if you need a minute, take one for yourself, too!

Let it Go

Sometimes, none of these suggestions work at the moment. If it comes to that, smile and let it go. You can move on with your plans. Or, you may need to go home. 

Develop a Secret Signal 

It’s always good to have an escape plan. You can develop a secret signal with your child or partner if you need to transition from a situation. Your secret signal can be a nod, head scratch, or code words. As soon as you see or hear it, respond immediately. 

Deck the Halls with Understanding

The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration for all families, including those affected by autism. At ABA Connect, our commitment is to empower children on the spectrum and their caregivers by providing personalized support that makes room for autism during this festive time.

By addressing sensory challenges, facilitating smooth travel experiences, tackling picky eating concerns, and offering sensory tips for classic holiday traditions, we hope you can create memorable moments that are enjoyable for your whole family. With ABA Connect by your side, you can confidently navigate the holiday season, knowing your child’s needs are understood and respected.

Remember, each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. We encourage you to share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Let’s make this holiday season a truly special time of joy and celebration for children with autism.

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

If you are interested in a positive, play-based approach to ABA, contact ABA Connect.

 

Please note that while I am a consultant writing on behalf of ABA Connect, my child is not a current client. The views and experiences shared in this blog post are entirely from a parent’s perspective. I aim to provide informative content and insights based on my personal experiences as well as interviews conducted with the staff at ABA Connect.

References:

https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/tips-for-autism-thanksgiving/?utm_content=buffer8f180&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer&fbclid=IwAR21vvW3BASj_sn6ZLr6d8R-Y_OgfcDWZEVyor5DWB_C6boFALBzXmoVXFs

https://www.brainbalancecenters.com/blog/holiday-party-guide-children-struggle-socially