The holiday period can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent children, such as those with autism or ADHD, as well as anxious children. The holiday period can be hard for these children as changes in routine can cause stress, anxiety, and uncertainty in what is going to happen that day. Here are some tips to help manage these transitions effectively:
1. Prepare in Advance
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Visual Schedules: Create a visual calendar that outlines the holiday period activities and changes. Use pictures or symbols if the child is not yet reading. You can also make a daily visual schedule that you can go through in the beginning of the day.
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Involve them in preparing: Include the child in holiday preparations, like decorating, card-making, and cooking to foster positive feelings towards the holidays and signalise the lead-up to the holiday events.
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Discuss upcoming situations: Talk through upcoming situations, such as visiting relatives or attending events. Explain what will happen and how they might feel. This can help children anticipate and process changes.
2. Maintain Predictability
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Keep Key Routines Intact: Stick to consistent wake-up, meal, and bedtime routines as much as possible.
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Provide Structure: Even during "unstructured" holiday time, plan activities they enjoy.
3. Gradual Transitions
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Countdowns: Use countdowns (e.g., 3 days until Christmas, 2 hours until guests arrive) to give the child a sense of timing. Perhaps you can make a daily ritual of counting down the days with an advent calendar.
4. Offer Choices
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Allow the child to make small decisions within the holiday plans (e.g., choosing an outfit or activity). This gives them a sense of control and prevents stress.
5. Prepare for Sensory Overload and/or Distressing Situations
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Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet area where the child can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
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Bring Comfort Items and Sensory Tools: Have familiar objects available such as fidget tools, a favorite toy, blanket, or noise-canceling headphones.
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Discuss what to do in overwhelming situations: Prepare a list or chart for "what to do if" scenarios (e.g., if they feel overwhelmed, they can go to their quiet space or ask for help).
6. Communicate Openly
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Validate Emotions: Let the child know it’s okay to feel upset or unsure about changes. Use language they understand to label and discuss emotions.
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Explain Changes: Be clear about why routines are different (e.g., "School is closed because it's the holidays, but we will do fun things together instead.").
7. Adapt Expectations
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Be flexible and willing to adjust plans if the child is struggling.
By combining preparation, structure, and flexibility, you can help your child to navigate the holiday season with greater comfort and confidence.