The Holidays are rapidly approaching, bringing with them a host of festivities, and gatherings. For children with social disabilities and sensitivities to sensory stimuli, this time of year can cause increased anxiety and frustration. The noted “To be Jolly” Season can often be difficult for children with special needs as well as their families. One or more of the following suggestions my help everyone enjoy the Season and each other:
- Consistency is a child’s best friend. During the Holidays, “less can be more” by providing time during the day to maintain structure and routines that are comforting to children with social disabilities.
- Foreshadow changes in your child’s routine, using visuals to support verbal explanations. Explain what will happen at a Holiday event and who will attend. The value of supporting verbal explanations with visuals cannot be overstated.
- The Holidays are filled with “hidden curriculum”, otherwise known as rules, guidelines, body language and figurative speech that is usually not directly taught but rather assumed to be known. The hidden curriculum can impact social interactions as well as safety. Think about the “assumed curriculum” on an airplane, in public bathrooms, when eating at a friend’s or relative’s house, while waiting in a buffet line, or when attending a religious service. Prior to an event, discuss the hidden curriculum for a specific event with your child. The Hidden Curriculum by Brenda Smith Myles, Melissa Tautman and Ronda Schelvan is a wonderful resource.
- Review and practice social skills that will be needed at a specific event. Write a social story that includes rationales for the expectations and begin reviewing the story far enough in advance of the upcoming social event.
- Children with social disabilities and sensory sensitivities may need a break. Proactively teach your child a means of communicating the need for a break and provide a space that is quiet and meets his/her sensory needs.
- Pack a “comfort toolbox” of your child’s favorite items used for calming purposes. These items will come in handy during travel and break times.
- Educate family and friends prior to the social event. This can be accomplished in the form of a short letter that advises others of your child’s strengths and needs. Inform them that more people trying to calm your child or talk to him/her at a time of distress can be counterproductive. Helping others understand your child’s disability will increase empathy and decease the possibility of others viewing behaviors as willful and/or manipulative.
- Transitions can be difficult for children with social disabilities. Let your child know in advance when you are preparing to leave a gathering or transitioning from playtime to a meal, etc.
- Classical music and picture books can be a soothing way to end a day filled with Holiday excitement and fun. Try to maintain regular bedtime and routines.
Remember, Holidays bring joy and a small dose of stress to all of us. Taking the time to prepare your child for the Holidays will allow him/her to enjoy events, family and friends. Happy Holidays!
Wendy Handrich, president of The Learning Curve of Wisconsin, Inc. is a former special education teacher and school administrator. In her current role as an educational consultant, Ms. Handrich provides practical, research-based suggestions to school teams that address student needs while capitalizing on the strengths of a child. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, her services help families, schools and other agencies engineer comprehensive, seamless and efficient educational services for students with special needs.
Comments