The holidays are all about spending time with family and friends, making memories and enjoying a little extra magic. But between the travel, excitement and changes in routines, things can get a bit overwhelming — especially for people with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.
To help make the season smoother and brighter, our program experts have shared some simple tips to help you and your loved ones navigate the holiday hustle and bustle.
We’ve also gathered some fun, festive activities your whole family can enjoy. They’re a great way to bring everyone together while supporting your loved one’s developmental milestones, social skills and learning.
Tips for Handling the Holiday Hoopla
A little preparation can make holiday outings and get-togethers easier for everyone. From packing a few familiar items to managing routines, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Traveling for the holidays? Social stories and visual aids can help your loved one know what to expect before you hit the road.
- Don’t forget must-haves, like noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, a weighted blanket or a sound machine. Familiar comforts can make a hotel room or someone else’s house feel more like home.
- Have familiar snacks and toys on hand, even if you’re just heading to Grandma’s house for dinner. You never know when they might come in handy.
- Try to stick to regular mealtimes and bedtimes, while still being flexible for special family traditions. Finding a balance that works for everyone is key.
- Keep sensory-friendly activities handy in the car, at a party or at the dinner table. They’re perfect to have in a pinch when someone needs a break or a little something to do.
Activities for Guaranteed Jolliness
These family-friendly activities are sure to keep the holiday spirit going strong and bring plenty of cheer to everyone. Pick your favorites, make them your own, and let the fun begin!
- Holiday scavenger hunt – Have everyone search the house for holiday objects using clues, pictures or silly riddles. For example, you might ask them to find “a four-legged creature with a bright nose” or an item that rhymes with “handle.” It’s an easy way to practice communication, counting, spelling, and object recognition while building teamwork and social skills. The best part? You can make it as simple or as elaborate as you’d like.
- Festive light drive – Pack up a thermos of hot cocoa, load up the holiday playlist and pile into the car for a family drive around local neighborhoods to check out festive displays. Often, you can find lists of participating homes online or on social media, or you can just drive around and see what you discover. It’s a cozy activity for anyone who has had a lot of stimulation or socialization and needs to wind down while still feeling merry.
- Seasonal stamps – Get crafty by creating homemade stamps using everyday objects, like paper towel tubes, candy canes, toys and even cookie cutters. Just squeeze some washable paint onto a paper plate, dip your stamps into it and then place your stamps onto a fresh sheet of paper. Add glitter, stickers or a handwritten message for an extra special touch. These homemade creations make adorable holiday cards while helping your loved one build hand strength, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills.
Making Memories That Matter
The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be special. Whether you’re enjoying a festive activity or simply enjoying some downtime together, you can create a season filled with meaningful experiences and memories to treasure long after the holiday decorations come down.
