TEACCH Tip #20 – Tips to Prepare for the Holidays
Holiday celebrations can bring joy, connection, and meaningful traditions, but they can also create challenges for individuals with autism. Changes in routines, unfamiliar people, crowded spaces, bright decorations, music, and new sensory experiences may feel overwhelming.
The best way to support a successful holiday experience is to provide information ahead of time. When individuals understand what to expect, they can feel more prepared and confident participating in holiday activities.
When preparing for a holiday event, consider answering these important questions:
WHAT will be happening?
WHEN will it happen?
WHO will be involved?
WHERE will it take place?
Visual supports can make these details easier to understand and provide a sense of predictability.
Ways to Prepare for the Holidays
- Use a Calendar: Create a weekly or monthly calendar to show upcoming holiday events. Include important dates such as decorating, visits from family or friends, celebrations, and countdowns to special activities.
- Create a Visual Schedule: Use a daily schedule to show activities, locations, and people involved. This helps individuals understand how holiday events fit into their usual routine.
- Use Social Narratives: Create a story using words, drawings, or photographs to explain what will happen during an upcoming event. Include pictures of the location, people attending, and activities whenever possible.
- Identify a Quiet Area: Plan a calm space where the individual can take a break and relax if the environment becomes overwhelming.
- Maintain Routines: Work with family members to preserve important routines when possible, such as bedtime, meals, or preferred daily activities.
- Consider Timing: Think about the individual’s energy level, sensory needs, and the timing of activities. Some individuals may do best attending events during quieter times or starting with a preferred activity.
- Practice New Experiences: Rehearse unfamiliar holiday activities ahead of time, such as opening gifts or greeting family members.
- Use Visual Supports During Activities: Visual cues can help clarify expectations. For example, use a special item, such as a holiday hat, to show whose turn it is to open a gift.
- Prepare for Gifts: Some individuals enjoy surprises, while others feel more comfortable knowing what to expect. Consider showing a small part of the gift, providing a list of gifts, or using pictures to prepare the individual.
Helpful Hints
- Remember that every individual experiences holidays differently. Consider sensory preferences, communication style, and personal interests when planning.
- Give information about changes ahead of time rather than waiting until the event occurs.
- Include preferred activities and familiar routines whenever possible.
- Build in breaks and downtime to support regulation.
- Focus on creating positive experiences rather than expecting participation in every tradition or activity.
With preparation, visual supports, and individualized planning, holiday celebrations can become more predictable, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone.