Christmas is a beautiful time to enjoy time with our families. However, with children home for the three week holiday over the Christmas period it can require a little adjustment for children and parents alike!
Holidays are about relaxation, having fun and a break from routine. But many children, especially children with autism, benefit from routines and consistency, particularly when out of their normal environment. Keeping simple routines like bedtimes and mealtimes can help if you are home or away for the holidays.
AEIOU Senior Behavioural Therapist, Claire McIvor, has one golden tip to assist you and your child to adapt to the holidays and consolidate all the work your children have been doing throughout the year at AEIOU:
“BE CONSISTENT”
Claire suggests you remain consistent with individual plans, strategies and communication devices over the holidays.
With that one golden rule in mind, summarised below are our other top tips for a Happy Family Christmas.
1. Manage expectations
Managing children’s expectations of Christmas and simplifying our own expectations of the ideal Christmas family holiday can help ease pressure.
2. Abandon perfection & keep things simple
From decorations to gift giving, meal preparation and family outings strive for simplicity rather than perfection.
3. Slow down, enjoy the moment & be present
Re-schedule catch-ups or reduce the time period if the family would benefit from some down-time. If it suits you better, linger longer and plan just one occasion for each day rather than trying to fit too much in to your schedule. Above all, whatever you are doing, enjoy the moment and be present in the present.
4. Remember to recharge & renew
Take care of yourself, particularly on stressful days. Take time for a longer shower, take a walk and give yourself mini-retreats out of the mayhem if you need them. Recharge and renew for the New Year.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the Parents and Carers of our AEIOU Children!
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