Tips for Being “Sensory Prepared” for the Holidays By Laurie Chuba OTR/L

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.  

The holidays are a special time for family and friends to be together. These simple suggestions can help kids with sensory challenges, as well as their families, enjoy these times and create lifelong memories.