Making The Holidays Easier For Special Needs Kids

By: Jennifer Hall

The holidays are a time for gatherings, gifts, food, and fun. But for some families with special needs kids, the crowds, lights, and sounds of the holiday season can be challenging. For example, children with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) don’t always react to holiday environments in the ways we’d expect. The rush of sensory information, combined with unfamiliar surroundings and transitions can be overwhelming for neuroatypical kids.

Parents may be tempted to shield their children by avoiding entirely any holiday gatherings and events that might exacerbate their symptoms. But protecting your kids shouldn’t mean they miss out on the holiday fun. Let’s look at a few ways you can help your special needs child have a safe and fun holiday season.

Avoid Crowds

Neuroatypical kids can become easily overwhelmed by crowds. The rush of sensory stimulation can result in behavioral breakdowns or can cause kids to ‘freeze up’ emotionally. Here are a few tips for finding holiday fun in less crowded environments.

Go Off-Peak

Try visiting holiday displays when there are fewer people around, such as early in the day on weekdays. Window-shopping when stores are closed is another way to let your child explore the holidays at a pace they can handle.

Stay Local

Small communities often sponsor low-key events such as drive-thru holiday light displays, which are less likely to over-stimulate neuroatypical kids. Check online for smaller light shows and drive-thru displays you can enjoy as a family.

Check for “Sensory Friendly Santas”

A growing trend is the “Sensory Santa Experience,” which offers a safe and quiet way for kids with autism and sensory issues to enjoy some holiday fun. Lights are dimmed and music is switched off, creating a calmer, less overwhelming environment.

Plan Ahead

If you’re the parent of a child with special needs, you already understand the value of preparation. The holidays are no different. By taking a little time now, you can scope out fun events that your kids can handle and enjoy.

Include Your Kids in Your Plans

Unexpected transitions can often elicit symptoms from neuroatypical kids. Sharing your holiday plans with your special needs child can help reduce anxiety. Let them know what will be happening and what’s expected of them. Also provide an out if a situation becomes overly stimulating.

Keep Shopping Trips Short

Crowds and long waits in retail stores can be tough on easily overwhelmed kids. If you’re planning to include your child in holiday shopping, plan your trips in advance, avoid peak shopping hours, and limit the duration of your excursions.

Schedule Home Holiday Fun

Make some time for holiday fun at home. Baking, making homemade decorations, or renting a holiday movie can offer your whole family some holiday fun time in a safe and familiar environment.

Connect with Kids at Their Pace

The holidays should be a time when families reinforce the bonds of caring and love. Try to plan at least one holiday event around your child’s current interests. Celebrating what sparks their love of life can bring joy to the whole family.

Upcoming Events

Looking for events that are designed for children and individuals with special needs? Below are several organizations that will be holding sensory friendly events in our area.

At Key Assets Kentucky, we work with special needs children and their families both to address health and behavioral challenges and to help provide needed support and guidance. We have extensive experience in addressing the unique challenges of autism, ADHD, and PTSD in adults and children. Our compassionate and dedicated staff is committed to providing behavioral health services tailored to the strengths and needs of the individual. We serve the city of Lexington, as well as communities in Fayette, Jessamine, Madison, Montgomery, Scott, and Woodford Counties in Kentucky.