As fall moves into winter, trees tinged with colorful hues give way to bare branches and the mild, temperate air is replaced by chilly winds and the days are dotted with holidays and festive traditions.
From Halloween, Thanksgiving and Diwali to Christmas and Kwanzaa, the holidays can be a whirlwind, including family gatherings, dinners, lights, gift-giving and more. Although the holidays are exciting, they can also be stressful for children with sensory sensitivities. Here are a few ideas to ensure that our kiddos with special needs enjoy a safe and happy holiday season in 2024.
Visit a sensory-friendly holiday event
Local sensory-friendly events cater to those with sensory sensitivities, limiting exposure to rich sensory stimuli such as bright lights, loud music and strong scents that may trigger kids with sensory challenges. A local sensory-friendly event options:
- November 3, 2024: Visit the Valentine Theater’s sensory-friendly performance of Pinkalicious
- December 10, 2024: Attend the Snowy Social hosted by the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Shop during sensory-friendly hours
Many area shopping outlets offer sensory-friendly hours when you can complete your holiday shopping in a more relaxed environment. Among others, Target usually offers sensory-friendly holiday shopping experiences with fewer sensory stimuli to make gift-shopping a calmer experience.
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Plan ahead to avoid surprises
Children with sensory challenges may appreciate knowing what to expect before busy holiday events. Communicate expectations, tell social stories of holiday traditions and plan out holiday event menus and venues ahead of time to prevent stress. Families can also practice going through holiday event routines and choose holiday outfits in advance.
Maintain your regular routine during the holidays
Things can get hectic and plans can change quickly during the holidays. This can be intolerable for children with sensory sensitivities who thrive on routines. Try to maintain some aspects of your child’s sensory routines. For instance, maintain certain activities that help them regulate the same, or provide opportunities for calming sensory input before a busy holiday gathering. Keeping certain routines in place can provide a child with a sense of security, while also preventing meltdowns.
Give your child a sensory-friendly gift
There are a multitude of sensory-friendly products for children with sensory sensitivities. Gifting your child a sensory-friendly toy or activity set is a great way to support their needs even after the holidays are over! Some ideas include sensory toys such as the Sensory Tube Gel Puzzle, Sensory Mini Mats and Sensory Tunnels. Fine Motor Toys and Games include Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog, Piggy Banks, Dressing Boards, Bubble Machines or Squigz.
Resources for Families of Kids with Sensory Needs
Below are some local resources to help your family plan a smooth, sensory-friendly holiday:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). nami.org. 703-524-7600.
- Avenues for Autism. avenuesforautism.org. 419-210-5095.
- The Ability Center of Greater Toledo. abilitycenter.org. 419-885-5733.
- Autism Society of Northwest Ohio. asno.org. 419-578-2766.
