Sensory-Safe Holidays

Tips for a Sensory-Safe Holiday Season Season

The holidays can be a fun – yet stressful – time for all of us. But, for those, especially children, with sensory overload issues, the holidays can mean more than stress. Avoid some of the power struggles, meltdowns and overloads with these tips.

1. Comfort is key. No matter how cute the dress looks or how adorable the pants tie together the outside, if your little one doesn’t like them, ask yourself is it worth the fight? Let your child wear comfortable clothes that don’t bind or chafe. It won’t hurt to let him wear his favorite sweat shirt or faded shoes, and it could help get your holiday dinner off on the right foot.
2. Schedule. Schedule. Schedule. This is key. Give your child a schedule of events for special activities, like Thanksgiving Day. It can be a written schedule or one with pictures for younger kids. Your child will feel calmer and safer knowing what is coming next. If you have a list of events, consider letting your child cross them off once they are complete, and discuss the schedule regularly. If your child is older, you can incorporate them into the planning stages so they feel they are part of the decisions.
3. Physical activity before the party. If you have time, engage your child in some physical activity before the festivities begin. Help him get out the wiggles before you are trapped in a car for hours or sitting at a table for long periods of time. He doesn’t need the extra energy and it can help him maintain his control around others.
4. Create a quite space. If you’re going someplace else for your holiday dinner, talk with the host beforehand and see if there is a quiet room where your child can go to have time to himself. Work with your child to make a “Do Not Disturb” sign to put on the door so he feels like he is part of the solution. Tell him it is ok for him to spend time alone and relax away from the crowd.
5. Smells of the season. Some children are sensitive to smells, even things that we consider appealing. If you are hosting the festivities and your home is already swimming in the aromas of pumpkin pie, turkey and all of extra food, skip the scented candles. It might be a little thing, but little things add up. In addition, if you want to play music, pick something soothing and keep it low.
6. Pick a code word. Choose a code word your child can use when feeling overwhelmed and needs a break. If he uses the code word, respond right away. Giving children some control during activities that may be overstimulating for them will reduce anxiety, and help them stay calm and organized. Knowing there is a way "out" is important.
7. Consider scaling back. Holiday parties and dinners have a way of expanding exponentially. What might start as meager plans can quickly turn into multiple house visits, parties with fiends and hours of visits. If you have a child with sensory challenges who gets overwhelmed by too much noise and activity, think about cutting back your guest list or outings. Most people will understand if you say, “It just got to be too much, but we would love to have everyone over for a barbecue this summer when we can all spread out outside and enjoy the weather.”

 
Let us know what you have planned to help your child cope with the holiday season.