Enjoying Christmas with people with autism
The Christmas holidays can be a particularly challenging time for people with autism, due to changes in routine, sensory overload and intense social interactions. To facilitate an inclusive and comfortable Christmas for these people, here are some practical guidelines:
Plan and anticipate
- Prepare a schedule: People with autism often benefit from a predictable routine. Try to establish a calendar with planned activities for this Christmas season: dinners, visits, gifts, designated days, etc.
- Use social stories: If necessary, you can explain with a visual story what will happen during the celebrations, especially at times that may be different than the rest of the year.
- Anticipate changes: If there are new elements, such as bright decorations or a dinner with a lot of people, for example, explain it in advance and let the person become familiar with all these changes.
Minimizes sensory overload
- Control the environment: Reduce flashing lights, loud noises, and strong odors that could be overwhelming for the person.
- Reserve quiet spaces: Make sure there is a quiet place where the person can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
- Suggest comfortable clothing: Avoid wearing uncomfortable dresses or clothes or rough fabrics.
Sensory stimulation for people with ASD
Respect your limits.
- Activities: If he doesn't want to participate in a specific activity, even if it's a designated day, a family dinner or any other activity, respect that and offer him an alternative option.
- Favorite food: Have foods on hand that you like and are familiar with, if the traditional menu is not to your taste.
- Avoid social pressures: Don't force him to greet, hug or open gifts in front of other people, if this makes him uncomfortable.
When we adapt celebrations to include the needs of people with autism, we not only enhance their experience, but we also foster a more understanding and welcoming environment for everyone.
Facilitates communication
- Clear communication: Use simple and direct language. If necessary, use pictograms or other augmentative communication systems. We can also explain the traditional phrases that are said on these days, such as, Merry Christmas or Happy New Year. We can model and guide at these times, but without forcing.
- Prior signals: If you need to change activities, let them know in advance and explain what the change will be.
Adapt activities
- Gifts: If receiving gifts is stressful, consider delivering them privately or spacing them out over time.
- Games and traditions: Adapt traditional activities to be more inclusive and avoid excessive stimulation.
Involve the person in preparing for the festivities
- Control options: Lets you choose activities or decorations that you like.
- Simple tasks: Assign predictable and manageable tasks, such as helping set the table, preparing something, or decorating the house.
Anxiety in people with autism
Be flexible.
- Accept the unexpected: Understand that some activities may not work as you expected, and adjust to the needs of the moment.
- Empathy and patience: Remember that each person with autism is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
These guidelines can help create a more inclusive, peaceful environment for everyone during the holidays. When we adapt celebrations to include the needs of people with autism, we not only enhance their experience, but we also foster a more understanding and welcoming environment for everyone. This helps reduce stress and fosters more respectful and positive relationships between family and friends.
Empathy and flexibility are key to ensuring that the festivities are a shared and enriching experience for all participants, respecting the diversities and singularities of each person.
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