The holiday season is right around the corner. This is usually a time of happiness for families, but it can also be a time of stress for both children with special needs and their parents. Children with language and motor delays can find the holiday season filled with new situations and experiences, which leads to an increased amount of stress and anxiety. By planning ahead, you, as parents, can minimize the amount of stress placed on your child and increase his/her feelings of joy and excitement through the entire holiday season.
Common situations that can be stressful for children are:
Increased time spent in malls or stores – These places can be overwhelming for children, especially around the holiday season when there is an increase in the amount of shoppers present. Try to arrange for someone to watch your child while you are shopping. If this is not an option, then set a time limit in each store (no more than 30-60 minutes) and make sure to bring snacks, drinks, and handy activities to keep your child at ease.
Changes in routine – Make a routine and schedule for home and stick to it. Talk with your child about the schedule so he/she knows what to expect. Take pictures of different activities and organize them on a picture schedule to help prepare your child for the activities of the day. Make sure to talk with your child if you are planning on making any big changes to their schedule, which is especially likely during the holiday season.
For example, if you will have family or friends visiting for the holidays, show your child pictures of family members in the weeks leading up to the visit so that they will be prepared when they arrive. You can also show your child pictures of any special activities that you might do while you have company.
If you plan on going on a trip this holiday season, talk with your child beforehand. Show them pictures of how you will get there and also where you are going. Also, talk with them about what activities you will do while there and about any new people that they might meet. Let your child choose some items to bring with him/her so they have a feeling of security while on the trip.
Stimulating decorations – The holidays bring many bright colors and lights. Sometimes this can be too stimulating for your child. If decorations are too much for them, try to find a compromise. If having a tree up for the holiday season is very important to you, perhaps only keep it up for a couple of weeks or don’t put as many decorations on it.
The holiday season is also a time of gift giving and receiving. Please take a moment to view our recommendations in the section entitled “Holiday Toy Gift Guide”. We are confident you will find some great ideas in there.
Most of these items can be found at your local Target or Wal-Mart, but, we also recommend checking out TJ Max, Ross, and Marshalls. They usually have some great items at discounted prices. Also, don’t forget about local consignment shops; these are good places to find gently used toys at low prices.
Wishing you all a safe and stress-free holiday season!!!
Anna & Hope
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