The excitement of the
holidays and time spent with friends and family is something that most of us
look forward to every year. For someone with sensory challenges due to ADHD,
autism, or sensory processing disorder, the time around the holiday can be
especially difficult. The sensory rich holiday environments in our
homes and schools, as well as increased social expectation can sometimes place overwhelming
demands on those struggling with sensory and social related
issues. There are ways to reduce the stress of these
challenges by modifying the environment, as well as expectations to allow the
holiday to be a happy time for everyone.
1. Provide
a sensory retreat for your child, in your home, or if traveling, have a place
for the child to go where they are away from the lights, noise and other
sources of sensory overload. Have books, sensory fidget toys,
pillows, headphones with music, coloring books, or other sensory tools that
your child finds comforting available in this space.
2. Don’t insist on
verbal communication or eye contact with friends or relatives, in group
situations, or with people the child does not see on a regular
basis. Prepare friends and family ahead of time to help
them understand the sensory challenges your child is facing, to avoid hurt
feelings. When the “pressure” is off, help facilitate meaningful
interactions in a less stressful environment.
3. Before
situations where there are going to be groups of people or increased social
expectations, allow your child 15 minutes of movement activities to prepare
their sensory system for this challenge. Bear hugs or short breaks
during these times are also helpful.
4. Remember,
there are lots of new and different foods during the
holiday. Be sure and bring some of your child’s favorite
foods. It is too much to expect them to try new foods during this
already sensory challenging time.
5. There
will be lots of opportunities to visit with friends and relatives during the
holiday. Let your child know in advance where you are going, who
will be there, and what you will do when you are there. This same
practice should take place when people are coming to visit you in your home.
6. Just
because people dress up for the holiday, it is not worth forcing your child
into clothing that will make them miserable. Try out new outfits a
few days before to make sure your child is comfortable in the new clothing, or
stick with clothes you know they can wear with comfort.
7. DO NOT
push your child to their limit. When they begin to show signs
of over-stimulation, allow them to take a break in their sensory retreat, or in
a less stimulating room for 5-10 minutes and then return. Carefully consider
each day’s activities. You know what your child will be able to
handle with success. Do not be afraid to say no to social
invitations if you feel it will be too much.
