By: Lauren Craig, OT

The holiday season is one of the most wonderful times of year for children (and adults, too) with magic all around! Navigating family gatherings, changes in routine, and sensory needs play an important role in maintaining the holly, jolly spirit for all! Below are some helpful hints to take along as you plan for your holiday adventures!

Overestimate Timelines and Provide Visuals

If preparing for a long road trip to visit loved ones, it may be helpful to overestimate how long the drive will take. Allowing your child additional time to process how long events may take can help ease anxiety surrounding changes to routine. Provide a visual schedule or interactive timeline for your child to better understand how long an activity will take and the alternative options that are available if there is a change to the plan.

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Space

Holiday parties often consist of fun music, lots of friendly faces talking to each other, and smells of yummy food. For those with sensory needs, this input can become a little overwhelming sometimes. Creating a safe sensory space for the individual to use when in heightened sensory states can ensure that they also have a memorable holiday experience with their needs met. Having a room with dim lighting, white noise, and preferred toys/items available throughout the event can help the individual regulate and rejoin when they feel ready! Space out gift opening over the course of an entire day or even a few days to allow child time and space to regulate big emotions that come along with new toys and excitement!

Sensory Experiences Through Helping

Incorporating sensory experiences into your child’s daily routine may be easier than you think. Does your child crave big movements such as jumping off the couch and crashing onto the floor? Encourage them to help with carrying in groceries, rearranging furniture, or mixing dough to provide deep pressure (AKA proprioceptive input) while feeling included in holiday events! Engaging children in meaningful activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride, increasing confidence and self-regulation.

Respecting Your Child’s Boundaries

Holidays are always exciting with family/friends getting together and giving gifts. Make sure to enforce child’s boundaries when it comes to hugs, foods, toys, etc. when with other family members and friends. Provide family members with alternative methods for showing affection such as high-fives. Maintaining consistent mealtime and bedtime routines when possible can also be beneficial to allow your child a sense of predictability and comfort. Having preferred foods available throughout the day can also lessen the stress when it comes to mealtimes!

The holiday season through a child’s eyes is truly one of the most magical times! By taking some proactive steps, you can help your loved one experience the joy that comes along with the season. Get creative and enjoy this holiday season through the eyes of your child! Have any questions? Contact our office at 859-353-3666 or ask your therapist at your next session!