The holiday season is fast approaching, and while it can be a time of joy and celebration, it can also bring significant challenges for children with sensory and developmental needs. Changes in routine, large gatherings, loud environments, and travel can be overwhelming. As a parent, you may feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as you think about how to navigate this time with your child.  

Check out these practical tips on managing the season while supporting your child's needs. 

1. Set Clear Expectations 

Children who thrive on routine may struggle with the unpredictability of the holidays. Setting expectations early can help reduce their anxiety. 

• Communicate in advance: Let your child know what events are coming up, whether it’s Halloween trick-or-treating, a family gathering for Thanksgiving, or holiday travel. 

• Break it down: Use simple language to explain what will happen at each event and who will be there. For example, “On Saturday, we will visit Grandma. We’ll have dinner, play some games, and then go home before bedtime.” 

2. Create Visual Schedules 

Visual schedules can be a powerful tool for helping children understand and anticipate changes in their routine. 

• Daily schedule: If possible, create a visual calendar that shows the upcoming events, one or two weeks in advance. Use pictures or icons to represent each event or activity. 

• Event schedules: Break down the schedule of individual events as well, such as “First we arrive at Grandma’s, then we eat, then we open presents, and finally, we go home.” 

Social stories are another helpful resource. These short, personalized stories describe an event in detail and help children understand what to expect, including sensory elements, social expectations, and transitions during the event. 

3. Plan for Sensory-Friendly Celebrations 

Holiday celebrations can be sensory overload with loud music/talking, unfamiliar smells, and new environments. Planning ahead to create a sensory-friendly environment can help your child enjoy the activities more comfortably. 

• Safe space: Wherever you go, whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday party, identify or create a quiet, calm area where your child can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. 

• Sensory tools: Bring along sensory tools that help regulate your child, such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, weighted blankets, or a favorite stuffed animal. 

• Familiar foods: If your child has specific dietary preferences or needs, pack some familiar snacks or meals so they can enjoy the celebrations without the stress of unfamiliar food. 

4. Managing Social Interactions 

Holiday gatherings often involve a lot of social interaction, which can be challenging and draining for some children. Preparing your child for these situations and allowing them to take breaks can ease their stress. 

• Role-play in advance: Help your child practice greeting others, engaging in short conversations, or saying "thank you" for gifts. Role-playing common scenarios can help them feel more confident in social settings. 

• Create a signal: Work with your child to develop a signal they can use to indicate they need a break from social interactions. This might be as simple as squeezing your hand or saying a certain word. 

• Give permission for breaks: Make it clear that it’s okay for your child to step away from the group when they need to. Having a designated “break” spot can help them feel more secure. 

5. Travel Tips 

If you’re traveling this holiday season, there are ways to make the experience more comfortable for your child. 

• Prepare for the journey: Show pictures of where you’re going, whether it’s a relative’s house, an airport, or a hotel. Talk through what will happen during the trip, step by step. 

• Sensory kit for travel: Bring along a sensory toolkit with headphones, fidgets, familiar toys, and snacks. If your child is extra sensitive to new environments, consider packing their favorite blanket or pillow. 

• Plan for movement: Long car rides or flights can be tough for children who crave movement. Plan regular stops during road trips or find ways to allow movement during flights, such as walks down the aisle. 

6. Post-Holiday Transitions 

Returning to the normal routine after the holidays can be just as challenging as the events themselves. Here are some tips to help your child adjust. 

• Gradual transitions: If possible, ease back into the regular routine. Reintroduce familiar daily activities and structures slowly to help your child adjust after a busy holiday season. 

• Talk about the return to routine: Use a visual calendar or daily schedule to mark the days leading up to the return to school or regular activities. This can help your child mentally prepare for the shift. 

• Focus on comfort: After a season of excitement and change in routine, it can help to offer extra comfort in the form of familiar routines, favorite foods, or quiet family time. This will help your child feel grounded as life returns to normal. 

Final Thoughts 

The holiday season is a time for creating memories and enjoying family, but it can also be overwhelming for some children. Planning and using strategies to manage transitions, your child will navigate the events more smoothly.  

At Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy Center, we’re here to support families year-round. If you have questions or concerns or are seeking more advice about how to help your child through this busy season, reach out to our knowledgeable team!