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Holiday Tips for Individuals with Autism
Overview
An article from Autism Speaks on helping parents and caregivers of kids with autism handle the unique challenges of the holiday season.
Holidays can be a stressful time for everyone. Here are a few tips that can help ease the anxiety for individuals with autism (ASD) and their families
- Bring quiet sensory toys or activities for the individual to use.
- Arrive early at gatherings, allowing the person with ASD to get used to a growing number of people.
- Inquire about a quiet location that a person with ASD can be relocated to if they become distressed.
- Use social stories to prepare for parties or religious services.
- Reward individuals with ASD often, using words of praise or tangibles (food, toys, etc.).
- Bring someone with you for extra support while shopping or attending events.
- Allow the person with ASD to wear earplugs or listen to music.
- If attending a religious service, inquire about how the other people attending the event can support the family.
- Be aware of anxiety and offer breaks as needed.
- Practice unwrapping gifts or give gifts unwrapped to alleviate stress.
- Difficulty with change? Consider gradually decorating the house.
- Prepare the individual in advance for visitors, like a photo album to review.
Additional Resources:
This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.