by Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities,
Fall is upon us, which means the holiday season is right around the corner. From Halloween to Thanksgiving to Christmas and everything in between, the holidays can be full of wonderful things; family gatherings, favorite foods, traditions, music, decorations, lots of excitement. But for children with developmental differences, all that excitement can sometimes feel like a lot.
As a parent, you know your child best. You know what makes them comfortable, what might be overwhelming and what helps them feel successful. With a little planning and flexibility, you can help make celebrations more enjoyable and meaningful for your child and the whole family.
- Create a Comfortable Space
Festive gatherings can bring bright lights, loud music, crowds of people, and unfamiliar surroundings. For some children, that can quickly become overwhelming. Before the celebration, think about what might be challenging for your child. If possible, create a quiet space where they can take a break from the activity. Headphones, sunglasses, a favorite toy or comfort item can also help.
And remember: taking a break does not mean your child is not having fun. Sometimes a few quiet minutes are all they need before they are ready to rejoin the fun.
- Keep Familiar Routines When You Can
Holiday schedules can be unpredictable, and changes in routine can be difficult for some children. You do not have to keep everything exactly the same, but try to maintain familiar mealtimes, naps, bedtime routines or other important parts of your child’s day when possible. Let your child know what to expect ahead of time.
A simple explanation such as, “First we’re going to Grandma’s, then we’ll eat, open presents and go home,” can help make a new experience feel more predictable.
- Let Your Child Participate In Their Own Way
Being included does not always mean doing things the same way everyone else does. Invite your child to participate in ways that match their interests and abilities. Maybe they can help decorate pumpkins, put place settings out, hand out presents, choose a movie or simply sit with the family while everyone talks.
Give your child choices whenever possible and celebrate the ways they contribute. Participation does not have to look perfect to be meaningful.
- Don’t Compare or Pressure
Every child experiences celebrations differently. Your child may not want to hug relatives, sit for a family photo, or join a group activity, and that’s okay. Try not to compare your child’s reactions to those of siblings, cousins or other children. Avoid pressuring them to “say hi,” “give Grandma a hug” or show excitement in a certain way.
Your child may show happiness differently, and that is perfectly okay. The goal is not to make your child behave like everyone else. The goal is to help them feel safe, accepted and included.
- Ask for Help and Give Yourself Grace
You do not have to figure everything out on your own. Talk with grandparents, relatives, caregivers, teachers or others who know your child well. Let them know what helps your child feel comfortable and how they can be supportive. Most importantly, give yourself some grace. Celebrations do not have to go perfectly. There may be a meltdown, an unexpected change of plans or a gift that does not go quite as expected. That’s parenting and that’s okay.
The best memories aren’t always the ones where everything went according to plan. They’re the moments when your child felt loved, included, and accepted for exactly who they are.
Just remember, with a little preparation, flexibility and understanding, families can create celebrations and holiday traditions that work for everyone.
For more information about Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities, visit mcbdd.org
