How to Survive the Holidays

Prevent a Holiday Meltdown 

The holidays are here and this can be a stressful time for children with autism.  There are many changes in the routine that can create anxiety and meltdowns.  There are things that you and your family can do to help lessen anxiety and prevent those meltdowns.   The following is a list of ideas that have been found to be helpful in lessening holiday anxiety:

• Create your own family holiday traditions instead of trying to adjust your child to existing traditions.  You might allow your child to skip the chaos of opening presents or hold the holiday meal at your house.
• Speak up ahead of time.  Call or email your family and let them know anything that might make things easier.  This could be identifying a quiet place your child can go to if things are loud or having foods that your child likes on hand.
• Have an escape route.  Know what you are going to do if your child does have a meltdown.  This may mean taking two separate cars or having someone sit and quietly read a book in a quiet room with your child.
• Special diets and holidays don't always mix.  Bring plenty of treats that your child can enjoy and ask your family to keep treats that are super tempting but off-limit to your child off the main table.  Family members can enjoy the treats discreetly, and your child doesn't see what he can't have.

This book is in the SESA Library. You may search the library catalog via the SESA website, or contact Anne directly by email at afreitag@sesa.org or by phone at 907-334-1301.