As the lyrics of Andy Williams’ holiday classic would suggest, the holidays are meant to be “the most wonderful time of the year”. Indeed, the holidays are a time of wonder and excitement for most young children; however, that is not always the case for some children with special needs. Parents and caregivers might notice an increase in anxiety or meltdowns during the holiday season.
There are several reasons why the holidays may not be the “hap-happiest season of all” for children with special needs. Young children with sensory processing difficulties can become overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of the holidays. While some children are attracted to the bright, blinking lights adorning many homes at this time of year, others may avoid these overstimulating holiday decorations. Changes in typical routines and daily schedules might also upset young children with autism or other developmental delays. Some children may experience difficulty adjusting to the extended break from school or daycare, while holiday parties and family gatherings might produce anxiety in others. Last, but not least, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season often results in missed naptimes or delayed bedtimes, which can leave young children (and their caregivers) exhausted and cranky.
How can we help young children cope with holiday stress? The following ideas are ways parents and caregivers can assist their child in managing stress during the holidays and throughout the new year.
- Utilize visual schedules or other visual supports. Consider creating a visual schedule outlining the day’s events. (See this previous article for more information on visual schedules.). This allows young children to anticipate changes in their normal daily routines. On a calendar, you could also post a picture of your child’s school, daycare, or home on each day so they know where they will be going over the holiday break. You could also display calendar icons representing upcoming special events such as family gatherings, holiday concerts, or special festivities.
- Read social narratives with your child. Social narratives, often referred to as Social Stories (Gray, 2021), attempt to describe what might happen during a social situation. Written from the child’s perspective, social narratives depict how the child might think, act, or feel. Positive coping strategies are often included in the story as well. You may find numerous examples of holiday-related social stories online, which can be adapted to meet your family’s holiday plans.
- Schedule sensory and movement breaks. Movement helps children expend their seemingly boundless supply of energy. Physical activity also promotes sensory and emotional regulation. During the holidays, schedule regular opportunities for young children to engage in movement-based activities. Provide time for children to play outside and explore the wonders of the winter season. Practice some stress-relieving holiday yoga with your child, or try some holiday-themed sensory activities.
- Maintain typical sleep schedules as much as possible. Sleep is vital for healthy growth and development, but it plays an equally important role in helping young children manage life’s emotional demands especially during the busy holiday season. If a holiday event interferes with a child’s normal nap time, plan an early bedtime if possible. Try to maintain normal bedtimes and nightly routines even when traveling. Like adults, a well-rested child is better equipped to cope with the stress and anxiety of the holidays.
Young children with special needs may experience increased stress and anxiety during this “most wonderful time of the year”. As parents and caregivers, we can help young children cope with these emotional challenges so that everyone can not only survive, but also enjoy “the hap-happiest season of all”.
References and Resources
Beck, C. (2016, December 3). Christmas proprioception activities. https://www.theottoolbox.com/christmas-proprioception-activities/
Carlson, K. (2021, September 28). Supporting young children with autism and other developmental delays through visual schedules. https://www.sdpb.org/blogs/children-and-education/supporting-young-children-with-autism-and-other-developmental-delays-through-visual-schedules/
Gray, C. (2021). Social StoriesÔ. https://carolgraysocialstories.com
Lightner, L. (2021, October 16). Christmas social stories for kids. https://adayinourshoes.com/social-stories-christmas/
Maddan, H. (2010, December 17). Strike a holiday pose: 12 festive stretches for kids. https://www.popsugar.com/family/Holiday-Yoga-Poses-Kids-12643523
Pola, E. & Wyle, G. (1963). It’s the most wonderful time of the year. [Recorded by A. Williams]. On The Andy Williams Christmas Album.