Making the Holidays Magical for Neurodiverse Kids
The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and celebration. But for neurodivergent children, it can also bring sensory challenges, changes in routine, and overwhelming situations. PRE BOX is here to help families navigate these hurdles and create a magical holiday season for everyone.
Embrace Predictability with Visual Supports
Visual schedules, social stories, and step-by-step guides can prepare kids for holiday activities by showing them the order of events that will be taking place. For example, you can read a social story about attending a holiday party before you go to the party and use a visual schedule during the party to help your child be able to know what to expect and be able to be social and communicate.
Create Sensory-Friendly Holiday Traditions
You can modify traditional holiday activities to suit sensory needs, such as using quiet twinkling lights instead of flashing ones. Use items from PRE BOX to support sensory play during the holidays.
Plan Ahead for Holiday Outings
Preparing kids for busy settings like malls, holiday markets, or family gatherings can be key to having a successful fun outing. You might want to think about your 5 senses and how the activity you are going to do may impact your childs 5 senses. You can bring noise-canceling headphones if it's going to be loud, a tight fitting shirt to provide more proprioceptive input, or fidget toys from PRE BOX to ease sensory overload.
The Gift of Sensory Play
Sensory play can bring joy and regulation during the holidays. It also helps children explore and learn in a fun and creative way.Exploring holiday-themed sensory bins (like Unboxing The Holidays or the Winter PRE BOX) is a great way to support language development, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving skills, and social interaction.
Building Joyful Memories Together
The holidays are a time to focus on connection. You can make modifications to ensure the whole family can participate. You can provide choices, create a sensory tool kit, and provide a quiet space for breaks. Always remember to embrace flexibility and celebrate small successes. Focus on the moments of joy rather than perfection.
The holidays don’t have to be overwhelming. With a little preparation and support, you can create a season filled with joy and memories for your neurodiverse child. PRE BOX is here to help every step of the way with tools, toys, and resources to make this time magical.
Looking for tools to make your holidays smoother? Explore our sensory boxes and holiday-themed resources at www.getmyprebox.com.