Navigating Christmas with a Neurodivergent Child

Christmas time can be such an exciting time for children but it can also bring overwhelm and anxiety for some neurodivergent children. Over the years we have learnt ways to best support our child and I wanted to share these with anyone who may need it. Of course, every child is different and I am sharing what works for us as a family.

1. Plan ahead and prepare. Christmas time can be filled with lots of exciting and fun activities but for some children, this can be overstimulating and overwhelming with the changes to routine and sensory differences. We try to book SEND sessions where available or during less busy times. We make sure we take items that will help support our child in these situations like ear defenders, their favourite toy, a tablet for watching favourite programs or playing games and fidget toys. Social stories are a really useful tool to help prepare for an event or activity. We always ensure we have our sunflower lanyard too.

2.⁠ ⁠Presents given throughout the day. My child can be overwhelmed with them all at once. We like to give them slowly throughout the day. We have our own tradition of opening the stocking presents after dinner.

3. Try to keep their routine. Although sometimes it's unavoidable during the festive period it's important we try and keep our child's usual routine as much as possible. We keep bedtimes and meal times to their usual times as a change of routine can be really unsettling for them.

4.⁠ ⁠Take the pressure off. Our Christmas is usually very relaxed, safe foods are always available, and there's no pressure to try new foods or even sit at the dinner table.

5.⁠ ⁠Follow their lead. Let friends and family know if you are visiting or attending a social gathering that you may not stay long or not go at all. It's OK to say no to things. Remember you know your child best and how to meet their needs. It's OK to be flexible, keep an open mind and go with the flow. You may find some days your child is able to cope with more or less and that's fine too!

6.⁠ ⁠We like to keep days free at home. Boxing Day is always very chilled for us, especially after all the excitement of Christmas Day. My child needs a day to relax and recharge. If you do have a busy Christmas, allow some in-between days at home for some well-needed downtime to allow your child some time to relax and regulate.

7.⁠ ⁠Do things your way. Embrace your own family traditions and know its OK if your Christmas looks a little different to others.

I'd love to know, what do you do to support your neurodiverse child over the Christmas period?

Lara