Festive seasons are part of the year that brings joy and excitement to many families. Thanksgiving is among the many festive seasons, where families come together to celebrate and give thanks. The one challenge with festive seasons is that they can be unbearable for children with sensory issues.
It may sound surprising, but not all children process vibrant colors, noises, and smells well. This can be particularly challenging for children diagnosed with autism, as the added people, and new experiences can cause sensory overload and subsequently increased stress levels.
Touro University Expert Advice
This time around, Experts at Touro University Nevada’s Pierce Autism Center have taken the initiative to offer valuable guidance and support for families with neurodivergent children. One of the center’s board-certified behavioral analysts, Dr. Jennifer McConnell, has outlined several strategies that can help these children enjoy the holiday season with less stress.
The first tip is related to food. Children on the spectrum always thrive on routines and familiarity, and this trait is evident when it comes to food. As a result, introducing new and unfamiliar dishes can be overwhelming for them as they struggle to adjust to different flavors and textures that deviate from their norm.
Thus, Dr McConnell advises parents to bring familiar and comforting food for their child whenever they are eating away from home during the holidays. This will help prevent any sensory overload or discomfort for the child and allow them to enjoy their meals just like at home. The next tip helps prevent sensory overload related to unfamiliar environments or noisy crowds. Dr McConnell suggests creating a designated safe space for the child to retreat to whenever they feel overwhelmed or need a break. This could be a quiet room or even a comforting corner that the child can use as a grounding tool.
Preparation is key
As always, preparation is key. Dr McConnell recommends showing children photos of relatives and other guests they will meet before the holiday gathering. This can help ease any anxiety or fear that may arise when meeting new people, even if they are family members. Prepare not only the child but also the hosts for what to expect and how to interact with the child. Having a quick exit plan in place can also be helpful in preventing meltdowns if the child reaches their breaking point.
Is there a member of your family who has autism? We at Nevada Autism understand that holidays can be challenging for those with autism and their families. That’s why we offer resources and support to help make these gatherings a little easier.
Whether it’s providing tips on creating a sensory-friendly holiday experience or therapeutic activities to engage the child during family gatherings, we are here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance during this busy time of year. Together, we can make the holidays more enjoyable for everyone, including those with autism.
