Surviving the Holidays: 5 Tips for Navigating a House Full of Festivities with a Toddler or Child with SPD

The holiday season is filled with joy and laughter, but for parents of toddlers or young children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), it can also be a challenging time. Trying to keep your child calm and happy amidst the holiday chaos can feel overwhelming. I’ve walked this path and discovered effective strategies that can make this season enjoyable for everyone. Here are my five essential tips for managing holiday festivities with a little one who might prefer a quiet corner over the rush.

1. Prepare the Space

Before the holiday rush begins, evaluate your home and identify quiet spots where your child can find peace. Creating a designated retreat with soft pillows, gentle lighting, and comforting toys can work wonders.

For instance, consider setting up a corner with:

• Calm Lighting: Use fairy lights or a soft lamp to create a soothing atmosphere.

• Sensory-Friendly Items: Include items like playdough, fidget spinners, or even a weighted blanket, which can help your child feel more secure.

  
  

A cozy sensory-friendly space for kids to unwind during busy holiday gatherings.

By having a space ready, you signal to your child that it’s acceptable to take a break when the atmosphere becomes too stimulating. This small act can help them recharge and return to the festivities feeling refreshed.

2. Involve Your Child

Engaging your child in holiday preparations can ease their anxiety and make them feel included. Allow them to help with simple tasks such as choosing decorations, selecting gifts, or baking cookies.

For example, your child might enjoy:

• Decorating the Tree: Let them place ornaments on lower branches, which can boost their confidence.

• Cookie Decorating: Mixing ingredients or using fun cookie cutters can keep them excited and involved.

  
  

These activities provide vital chances to bond with your child while making the preparations enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

3. Stick to Routines

Maintaining familiar routines during the holidays is crucial for children with SPD. Whenever possible, try to uphold regular meal and nap times.

Children thrive on consistency. For instance, if bedtime is usually at 7 PM, aim to keep that schedule even with late holiday gatherings. Communicate any changes in advance to prepare your child. If you plan for visitors to arrive an hour earlier than usual, let them know so they won’t be shocked by the unexpected.

Research shows that keeping routines consistent can lower anxiety in children by up to 40%. So, whenever it’s feasible, hold onto those routines to give your child a sense of stability.

4. Set Clear Expectations

Before the festivities begin, explain to your child what they can expect. Talk about who will visit and what activities might happen around them. This preparation helps them feel mentally ready for the sensory experiences ahead.

Consider using a visual schedule if your child responds well to visuals. For instance, draw a simple timeline that includes:

• Arriving Guests: Explain when friends or family will come.

• Major Activities: Outline when activities like singing carols or playing games will occur.

  
  

This clarity reduces anxiety and helps your child feel prepared for the flow of the day.

5. Embrace a Flexible Mindset

Flexibility is essential when navigating holiday gatherings with children who have SPD. Despite the best preparations, things can change. There may be unexpected loud noises or too many people, leading to moments of distress. Remember that it's okay to take breaks with your child.

When challenges arise, don’t hesitate to adapt. If the celebration becomes too noisy, step outside for fresh air or retreat to the cozy space you created earlier.

Remember, every little win counts. If your child enjoys a brief game or stays engaged for a part of the celebration, celebrate that achievement.

Embracing the Holiday Season

The holiday season can be both beautiful and chaotic, especially for families managing SPD and related sensory issues. With thoughtful preparations, an understanding of your child's needs, and a willingness to adapt, you can create a joyful environment that supports everyone’s well-being.

I hope these tips help you navigate this busy season with a little more ease. Remember, it's perfectly okay to lean on your support system and focus on making meaningful memories with your child that you can cherish for years to come.

A joyful family gathering during the holidays, showcasing togetherness and warmth.

Here's to a holiday season filled with joy, adaptability, and love! You can do this!