Tips for Enjoying the Holidays with Autism
The holidays are a wonderful time of the year, full of family traditions and seasonal favorites. The holidays can also be overwhelming, especially for children with autism and their families.
This year, with the added consideration of COVID-19, there are different challenges to consider, but with a little preparation and a lot of patience, you can create a holiday experience that your entire family can enjoy.
1.) Pre-game Prep
Take time to prepare your kiddo for the holidays and new experiences you have planned. Reading books and watching videos about the holidays are fun ways to get into the holiday spirit. If you are planning to travel or gather with family and friends, the following are a few tools I have found helpful with my kids:
- Social Stories – Create a basic story of what your kiddo will be doing and steps they can take to feel balanced and regulated. This is a link to Personalized Social Story Templates from Autism Speaks
- Pictures of Friends & Relatives- If you are going to be socializing with friends and relatives, show your kiddo pictures of the people they will be visiting with and label the photos with each person’s name.
- Let Them Help- As you are preparing for the holidays, encourage your kiddo to lend a hand. Remember, participation is different for everyone. For some, arts & crafts or cooking is a fun way to help, while others may be content with being in the same room with you.
To learn more about supporting your child’s emotional growth, check out our blog on helping your child manage their emotions.
2.) Manage Expectations
Keeping plans simple and managing expectations are essential in enjoying the holidays with my kids. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. In order for me to model the behavior I want to see in my kids & stay calm, I’ve learned to keep things simple. ere are a few other tips I find helpful during the holidays:
- Keep Routines & Consistent Schedules- Keeping schedules and routines consistent, will help your kiddo feel balanced. Try to plan holiday meals during a time that works best for your family.
- Pick Your Battles- If the goal is to enjoy stress free holidays, this may not be the time to introduce new foods, goals or challenging activities. Set your kiddo ( and yourself) up for success and keep it simple
Families using in-home ABA therapy often find that consistency in schedules helps their child thrive during special occasions. If you’re exploring options, our ABA services can provide the right support.
3.) Plan Ahead
Creating a game-plan in advance is a great way to reduce stress for you and your family. Take some time to identify what your family needs to enjoy a successful holiday experience and be sure to ask for help. Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful in planning for the holidays:
- Timing – From planning mealtimes to duration of visits, timing is everything. Choose times that work best for your family and plan around them. I find that “short & sweet” is best when socializing with my family and plan our departure early, to avoid sensory overload.
- Divide & Conquer – Identify your kiddo’s needs for support and create a plan with your spouse, partner or family members. Teamwork makes the dreamwork! Take turns giving your kiddo the support s/he needs while visiting with friends and family.
- Identify a Quiet Space – Whether you are hosting a gathering at home or visiting friends and family, it’s helpful to identify a quiet space that your kiddo can go to and take a break. Remind your kiddo where the space is & encourage him/her to take regular breaks to chill out & reset.
For more practical situations, see our blog on going to the doctor, which includes tips for managing new environments and routines.
4.) Be Present and Enjoy!
The holidays are a time to be with friends and family, express love and gratitude, and celebrate! Take this time to enjoy your family favorites like listening to music; cooking a special meal (or ordering takeout); or taking a quiet walk together. Take it easy- keep it simple & enjoy your beautiful family!
Families receiving ABA therapy for kids often find that applied behavior analysis helps children adapt more smoothly to social gatherings and festive routines. If you’re looking for an autism center near me or ABA providers near me, EAS can help.
Also, check out our guide on autism spectrum disorder and haircuts, another situation where preparation makes a big difference.
Ready to Explore More Support?
In case you feel the need to visit us, we are available at many locations across the states like Beaverton, Duluth, Nashville, and many more.
Learn more about our ABA services for autism by contacting an EAS Intake Specialist to see how ABA behavior therapy can benefit your child.
Explore More
How Autism Affects the Brain: Structure, Connectivity, and Sensory Processing
Autism is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition shaped by differences in brain structure, neural connectivity, and sensory processing. Research shows early variations in brain growth, local overconnectivity, and long-range underconnectivity, influencing communication, behavior, and perception. Sensory sensitivities and detail-focused strengths are common features. Understanding these neurological differences helps parents and educators move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches toward supportive, individualized, and neurodiversity-affirming care.
Safety and Wandering Risks in Autistic Children
Wandering, or elopement, is a serious safety risk for autistic children due to sensory overload, communication challenges, and reduced danger awareness. Triggers such as routine changes or overstimulation can increase risk, making proactive planning essential. Prevention strategies like ID tools, home safety modifications, structured routines, and ABA therapy support can significantly reduce danger while promoting independence and confidence.
Daycare Challenges in Toddlers: When to Pause and Seek Support
Toddlers may struggle with daycare routines, transitions, and social interactions, which is often a normal part of development. However, when challenges are persistent or more intense than expected, they may signal the need for extra support. Paying attention to caregiver feedback and trusting parental instincts can help families decide when to pause and seek guidance. Early support fosters understanding, confidence, and emotional well-being.
