Christmas and Autism:

The holiday season is a whirlwind of emotions for many families—a magical blend of joy, anticipation, and togetherness. But for parents of children with autism, it can feel very emotional, where the highs of tradition clash with the realities of our unique journeys. 

Today, I want to share a personal reflection on this festive time and offer some practical tips to help other parents make the transition smoother for their autistic children.

The Rollercoaster of Festive Emotions

During this time, your emotions can really feel like they’re in rollercoaster mode. From the festive cheer and families coming together, to the build-up for children as the days inch closer to Christmas—it’s all so exhilarating. These feelings aren’t just fleeting; they’re rooted in our cultural traditions, the ones we experienced as young children ourselves. We dream about the day we’ll get to share this magic with our own kids.

But reality has a way of grounding us. You look into the eyes of your child and realize that this festive season, like the ones before, will be so very different. 

I remember sending a quick message to my dad, mom, and best friend—people I know will understand. Yet, they still ask, “What did Father Christmas get him?” It’s a reminder of the gap between our world and theirs.

In his world, there’s no idea that tomorrow is Christmas 🎄. No understanding of why everyone is suddenly wearing red. No clue who Santa is 🎅 or why there are all these gifts 🎁 appearing out of nowhere. He looks around at the bright lights shining everywhere, and it can be overwhelming.

This is us. Some days, you realize more than others the uniqueness of the journey we’re on. It’s where the little things matter most. Being on holiday, surrounded by nature, and doing what he loves best—that’s our celebration. As everyone else dives into the festive frenzy, we’re reminded that some see every day as a blessing. This little guy teaches us daily that it’s the fine details of this beautiful life that truly count. 🎁

Embracing the Difference and Creating Memories

As a mom with a full heart, learning along the way, I’ve come to embrace these differences. There’s beauty in both the typical celebrations and our adapted ones. Memories are what you make of them 💙—whether it’s a quiet nature walk or a simplified family gathering. The key is shifting our focus from what “should” be to what works for our children, turning potential challenges into opportunities for connection.

Tips for Parents: Making the Festive Season Transition Easier

If you’re a parent navigating autism during the holidays, you’re not alone. Here are some practical tips drawn from my own experiences and insights from the autism community. These can help ease sensory overload, reduce anxiety, and create joyful moments tailored to your child’s needs:

1.  Prepare with Visual Aids: Use social stories, picture schedules, or calendars to preview the holiday changes. Show images of decorations, family gatherings, or gift-opening to build familiarity and reduce surprises.

2.  Maintain Key Routines: The holidays disrupt schedules, which can be tough for autistic children. Stick to consistent mealtimes, bedtimes, or daily activities wherever possible to provide a sense of security amid the chaos.

3.  Address Sensory Sensitivities: Bright lights, loud music, and crowded spaces can be overwhelming. Opt for dimmer decorations, noise-cancelling headphones, or quiet retreat spaces. Test new sensory elements (like twinkling lights) in advance to gauge reactions.

4.  Adapt Traditions to Their Interests: Instead of forcing “traditional” activities, create new ones around what your child loves. If nature brings them joy, incorporate outdoor walks or sensory-friendly crafts. Focus on quality over quantity—sometimes a single meaningful activity trumps a packed schedule.

5.  Communicate Openly with Family and Friends: Share your child’s needs ahead of time. Explain why certain questions (like about Santa) might not resonate, and suggest alternative ways to engage, such as playing with preferred toys together.

6.  Prioritize Self-Care and Flexibility: Holidays can be exhausting for parents too. Build in downtime for everyone and be ready to pivot if plans go awry. Celebrate small wins, like a peaceful moment of connection, and remember that perfection isn’t the goal—presence is.

By incorporating these strategies, we can transform the festive season from a source of stress into one of growth and gratitude.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays🎄 

boy walking in forest

boy and Christmas tree