For families with a loved one with autism, holiday planning can present some extra challenges. While Thanksgiving and the winter holidays can definitely be the most wonderful time of the year, some may find the “sheer, blinding chaos of everything” pretty much unbearable.

However, with some preparation beforehand, you can turn the madness of the holidays into a joyous and magical time for the whole family. Here are some tips on how to prepare your family member with autism for the challenges of the holiday season.

Maintain Structure and Routines as Much as Possible

The holiday season is often a time of change and chaos, which can be difficult for someone with autism who thrives on structure and routine. To minimize stress during this time, do your best to maintain regular routines as much as possible. This includes mealtimes, bedtimes, school, or work schedules, etc. If changes need to be made (e.g., due to travel plans), try to introduce them gradually ahead of time so that your loved one has time to adjust.

Be Flexible and Go With the Flow

With all the changes that come with the holidays, it’s essential to be flexible and go with the flow as much as possible. This means being prepared for last-minute plans or schedule changes and not getting too upset if things don’t go exactly as planned. Remember that your dear ones may also need extra time alone during this busy time of year, so be sure to respect their wishes. Take on the pressure of handling the quick changes yourself so that your autistic loved one has less stress to deal with.

Prepare for Potential Sensory Overload

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season, combined with bright lights and loud noises, can be overwhelming for someone with sensory sensitivities. To help reduce sensory overload, provide earplugs or noise-canceling headphones if you plan on going to crowded places like malls or parties. You might also want to bring a favorite toy or stuffed animal for your loved one to hold on to in case they feel overwhelmed.

Offer Their Favorite Foods

With Thanksgiving and holiday meals, plus a multitude of sweets and treats, there are a lot of new and different foods introduced during this time. Many of us are excited to taste the special menu items that we may only have once a year, but the variation in diet can be overwhelming for those with autism. Encourage them to try new foods and explore different tastes as they are comfortable, but make sure to have their regular favorites on-hand if the different menus are too much for them.

Seek Out Autism-Friendly Events

At this time of year, your family may be involved with numerous special events, activities, and gatherings, but it’s important to consider that not all of them may be ideal for someone with autism. To ensure your loved one enjoys and participates in the holidays, seek out events specifically designed for people with autism or other special needs. These events often have smaller crowds, more predictable schedules, and sensory-friendly accommodations, making them less overwhelming and a more pleasant experience for everyone involved. Also consider hosting gatherings in your own home so loved ones can retreat to their room or another more comfortable space, if needed.

Does your family have other ideas or traditions that make the holidays more enjoyable for your loved one with autism? Share them with us below! Washington Autism Alliance is here to connect you with resources so that everyone can look forward to a happy holiday season and supportive community year-round. Join for free as a member today!