The holidays are a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for families with loved ones on the autism spectrum, this time of year can also bring challenges. The sensory overload from flashing lights, loud music, crowded spaces, and even the scent of certain holiday foods can make the season feel overwhelming. However, with a little planning and thoughtfulness, it’s entirely possible to create a sensory-friendly holiday that allows everyone to enjoy the festivities without stress or discomfort.
If you’re looking for ways to create a calm and bright celebration for your family, this guide will offer practical tips while also discussing the role of ABA therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis) in supporting individuals with autism during the holiday season. By combining sensory-friendly strategies with the principles of autism behavior support, you can ensure that everyone has a memorable and peaceful holiday.
Understanding Sensory Sensitivities in Autism
Many individuals on the autism spectrum experience sensory sensitivities, meaning they may be more sensitive or less sensitive to sounds, sights, smells, textures, or even tastes. For example, some people may be startled by the loud music at a holiday gathering, find the bright lights overwhelming, or dislike the feel of certain fabrics in winter clothing. These sensory triggers can lead to discomfort or distress, which is why it’s important to create an environment that accommodates these needs.
This is where ABA therapy and autism behavior support can be extremely beneficial. ABA therapy is a widely recognized approach that helps individuals with autism manage challenging behaviors, develop new skills, and improve communication. It can also play a key role in preparing someone for the sensory aspects of the holidays, helping them cope with potentially overwhelming situations and teaching them self-regulation techniques.
Create a Calm, Predictable Environment
Predictability is key for many individuals with autism. The holiday season is full of changes—new schedules, different decorations, and unfamiliar visitors—that can create anxiety. To reduce stress, try to maintain a familiar routine as much as possible.
- Decorate Slowly: Instead of transforming your home all at once, try introducing holiday decorations gradually. This can help avoid sensory overload from too many changes at once.
- Quiet Spaces: Designate a quiet room or corner in your home where your loved one can retreat if they need a break from the festivities. This space should be calm, dimly lit, and free of distractions.
- Routine Visuals: For younger children or those with communication challenges, visual schedules can be helpful. A chart or calendar that outlines the holiday events can help your child understand what to expect and reduce anxiety.
Manage Sensory Triggers
The holidays can be filled with sensory triggers that are difficult for someone with autism to process. Whether it’s the sound of jingle bells or the overwhelming smell of holiday candles, minimizing these triggers will help create a more enjoyable experience.
- Lights and Decorations: Opt for soft, warm lights instead of flashing or bright, blinking lights. Consider using LED lights that don’t flicker or shine too intensely. If your child is sensitive to certain colors or patterns, consider using simpler, more neutral decorations.
- Sounds: Holiday music can be a fun part of the celebration, but loud music or a crowded party with lots of competing noises can overwhelm someone with sensory sensitivities. Keep the volume low and consider playing calming holiday music or white noise to help drown out other distractions.
- Scents: The smell of holiday foods like cinnamon, pine, or baked goods can be overwhelming to someone with a heightened sense of smell. Use unscented candles, limit strong-smelling foods, or prepare a sensory-friendly room that doesn’t have strong fragrances.
Incorporate ABA Therapy Techniques for Holiday Support
If your loved one is currently receiving ABA therapy or ABA services, incorporating the strategies and techniques from their therapy into holiday activities can make a big difference.
- Behavioral Interventions: Your child’s Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can help you identify specific behavioral triggers and develop a strategy to manage them. For example, if your child tends to become agitated in crowded situations, you can use relaxation techniques or visual supports to help them stay calm.
- Social Stories: Social stories are a valuable tool in ABA therapy for helping individuals with autism understand social situations and what is expected of them. You can create a social story about holiday events, outlining what will happen at a family gathering or holiday dinner. This can help your child know what to expect and feel more comfortable.
- Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is a core principle of ABA therapy. If your child engages in appropriate behavior during a holiday event, offer praise or a reward that is meaningful to them. This encourages positive social behavior and reduces the likelihood of meltdowns or disruptions.
Plan Sensory-Friendly Holiday Activities
Not all holiday activities are ideal for individuals with autism, especially if they involve large crowds, loud noises, or unexpected events. However, there are many sensory-friendly alternatives that can still capture the festive spirit:
- Holiday Crafts: Engage your child in quiet, creative activities like decorating holiday cards, making ornaments, or baking cookies. These activities allow for sensory exploration in a controlled and enjoyable environment.
- Nature Walks: If the weather permits, take a walk in a park or around the neighborhood to enjoy the holiday lights and decorations in a quieter, more relaxed setting. Nature can be very calming for individuals with autism.
- Sensory Play: Set up a sensory play area with materials like kinetic sand, soft fabrics, or water beads. These can offer a soothing and engaging experience while reducing stress.
Practice Patience and Flexibility
The holiday season is a time of joy, but it’s important to remember that not every moment will go according to plan. If things don’t go as expected, be patient and flexible. It’s okay to take breaks, change plans, or leave early if the situation becomes too overwhelming. By maintaining a calm and understanding attitude, you’ll model positive coping skills for your child and help them navigate the season with greater ease.
Benefits of a Sensory-Friendly Holiday for Families
Creating a sensory-friendly holiday doesn’t just benefit individuals with autism—it can help the entire family enjoy the season. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Reduced Stress: With fewer sensory triggers, everyone in the family is likely to feel more relaxed and able to enjoy the festivities.
- Increased Participation: When sensory needs are addressed, individuals with autism are more likely to actively engage in holiday activities, whether it’s decorating the house, opening presents, or spending time with loved ones.
- Improved Social Interaction: ABA therapy techniques can help individuals on the spectrum learn how to manage social situations and interact with family members in positive ways.
- Stronger Family Connections: A sensory-friendly holiday creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable and valued, strengthening family bonds.
The holidays can be an enjoyable time for everyone, including individuals with autism, when their sensory needs are met and supported. By incorporating ABA therapy techniques, creating a predictable environment, and being mindful of sensory triggers, you can create a calm and bright holiday celebration that fosters connection, joy, and peace.
Whether you’re planning quiet family activities or simply adjusting your home environment, a little preparation goes a long way in making the holidays a more inclusive experience for all.
Happy Holidays, and may your season be filled with warmth, love, and sensory-friendly joy!
