The holidays are all about being with family and enjoying the festivities. Unfortunately, can be very difficult for a child with Autism. It does not mean the holidays are ruined. It just means as a parent, you will have to take on some precautions. Here are 10 easy tips celebrating the holidays with your child:

Plan Ahead

• Plan visits with family and friends for short periods. If you plan short visits your child is less likely to get overtired or overwhelmed. Keep the visitors to a few at a time

• Don’t force your child to participate in activities they do not like. If you are having a family dinner and your child does not want to sit at the table with a lot of people, let them sit where they are comfortable.

Keep Your Child’s Schedule

• If bedtime is at eight in the evening, stick to it. Explain to visitors that your child’s needs come first, and they need sleep. Taking a sleepy child somewhere can create negative outcome.

• If your child does not like crowds, do not take them Christmas shopping. Leave them home with your spouse or another responsible caregiver. It is hard enough to deal with the crowded stores alone. It could be miserable bringing an unhappy child along.

Opening Christmas Gifts and Dinner

• Opening Christmas presents is exciting, but to a child with autism, it can be overwhelming. They often have issues with overstimulation. By opening a few presents at a time, the child does become too overwhelmed and can enjoy their gifts.

• If your child is on a special diet, make sure friends and family know this. You do not want other people feeding your child things that could ruin the progress you have made. Some people might not agree with your choices about your child’s diet. Be strong and stick to your beliefs.

Keep In Mind

• Remember the reason for the holidays. They are to be with family and loved ones. Enjoy the holiday with your child. Be thankful for all you have in your life. And the amazing milestones big or small your child has made in the last year.

• Reward your child for their good behavior while visiting others. Your child will know they can earn a prize, not only for good behavior, but it also gives them something to look forward to.

• Relax. I know this is easier said then done. Family members have a tendancy to state there opinion about what you do. If your child senses stress or anxiety from you, they will become uneasy.

In Conclusion

The holidays with your child can be a wonderful time with a little extra planning. Forget about the daily problems and struggles you have. Remember all the good things you have. Most important, enjoy the holidays.