FollowParents of children with special needs understand how difficult the holidays can be. From lights, to parties, to music it can quickly become overwhelming for a child to grasp. Helping Special Needs Children Navigate the Holidays with Ease is all about planning ahead.
The holiday activities don’t mean your kids can’t have fun, or that you can’t have fun too. This year, put a plan in motion to create a fun filled holiday with everyone involved. Being well prepared will help to ensure that everyone will have a great time.
HELPING SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN NAVIGATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH EASE
Create an Exit Strategy: One of the biggest problems parents of special needs children face is the eventual meltdown or tantrum that occurs when their child is overwhelmed. Whether it is a sensory issue, exhaustion or fear of crowds doesn’t matter.
At some point during the holiday season your child is likely to have a meltdown. Having an exit strategy in place ahead of time will make things easier for everyone. Always let hosts know that you may need to leave abruptly, or at minimum take your child to a quiet and dark place to settle down before coming back to the party.
When out in public, map out your shopping so you can easily return to your car if needed in short order. Start with the store farthest away and work your way home.
Avoid Large Parties: Large parties may sound like fun, but they are often a breeding ground for problems with your child. Unless the crowd is another group of children and parents with similar circumstances, it may be hard to explain a tantrum or outburst without questions.
Opt for small informal gatherings with those who are already familiar with you and your child’s needs. This takes the pressure off of you, and them.
Don’t Wrap Packages: For kids with sensory issues, the crinkle of paper can be a good or bad thing. Just because presents are typically wrapped doesn’t mean you have to do so. Store them in a great hiding place until Christmas Eve.
When it comes to gift wrapping time, make sure that their present is clearly labeled and unwrapped at this will help to prevent a meltdown on Christmas morning.
Hire A Fun Babysitter: For those times when the rest of the family really wants to go do something like look at holiday lights or attend a local concert, hire a great babysitter. Sometimes the trauma of taking your child out isn’t worth it.
Instead, find a great fun babysitter to come in and do a cool project, watch a movie or have a special meal with your child while the rest of the family goes out.
Dealing with the holidays and special needs children involves planning ahead and thinking outside the box. This year enjoy all the holidays have to offer while giving your child the best you can. Use these tips for helping your child navigate the holidays with ease and you’ll come out the hero.
