By Dr. Amy Wheadon, OT, OTD, OTR
KidSHINE LLC Founder and Pediatric OT
Sensory Processing Skills and Self-Regulation are critical when they affect a child’s ability to participate successfully in everyday activities—whether at home, school, or in the community. Sensory responses can vary widely, including under-responsiveness, over-reactiveness, or sensory-seeking behaviors. It’s important for caregivers to recognize signs of dysregulation, particularly during the holiday season.
The holidays can be a busy and overwhelming time filled with sensory triggers that may be especially challenging for sensory-sensitive children.
Common Holiday Triggers for Sensory-Sensitive Kids
- Flashing lights
- Excited and noisy crowds
- Loud music
- Itchy or uncomfortable holiday clothing
- Sugar, dyes, and dairy in festive treats
- Strong or unfamiliar aromas
- Changes in routine
- Lack of sleep
- Decreased physical activity
Even typically fun and exciting holiday activities can trigger sensory sensitivities, leading to anxiety or meltdowns.
Changes in Routine
Neurodivergent kids, especially those with sensory processing challenges, often thrive on familiar routines. These routines reduce the cognitive effort needed to process sensory input, allowing the brain to focus on emotional regulation, conversations, and impulse control. However, the holiday season is full of routine changes—like early school dismissals, holiday parties, family visits, and new foods—that require extra cognitive energy.
Even fun and exciting changes can impact your child’s ability to regulate their emotions!
Preparing a Sensory Child for the Holidays
Plan Ahead for Success
Helping your child understand the holiday schedule and preparing for sensory challenges can make a big difference. Consistency with sensory diet activities, along with a clear understanding of what to expect, will help set your child up for success.
Tips for Preparing Your Child:
- Provide Structure, Routine, and Predictability: Outline what will happen, who will be there, and how long the event will last.
- Visual Aids: Use family pictures, social stories, or role-play scenarios to familiarize them with upcoming events.
- Prioritize Sleep, Hydration, and Healthy Eating: These basics are crucial for keeping sensory responses in check.
- Create a Family Tree: Help your child learn and recognize who they might meet using family photos.
Sensory Tools and Strategies
Having familiar strategies and tools available at gatherings will support your child’s regulation. Create a Sensory Tool Bag that includes fidgets, calming toys, and comfort items. If possible, designate a quiet space where your child can retreat if overwhelmed.
Before and During Events, Include Multisensory Exploration!
Maintaining a Sensory Diet Routine
Consistency is key, especially during breaks from school. Try to build sensory activities into your holiday schedule without placing extra demands.
Ideas to Maintain Routine:
- Free Play: Include unstructured playtime with familiar, preferred activities.
- Proactive Regulation: Practice deep breathing, heavy work activities, or sensory bins before stressful events.
- Outdoor Activities: Whenever possible, spend time outside! Playgrounds, biking, swings, or winter fun like sledding can provide regulating input.
How to Support a Sensory Child in Social Situations
Help your child navigate social greetings and interactions during family events. Respect their comfort level—some children may prefer a high-five instead of a hug or might need noise-canceling headphones to manage loud environments.
Ways to Support Social Situations:
- Allow your child to lead how they greet others.
- Model appropriate ways to set boundaries, like offering choices for greetings.
- Provide pauses for your child to respond and reinforce positive interactions.
Preparing Your Family
It’s helpful to give family members a heads-up about your child’s sensory needs. Consider sharing information about what might help your child feel more comfortable during gatherings. Explain that advocacy doesn’t mean revealing every detail about your child’s challenges—focus on what will help your child thrive.
Navigating Conversations with Family:
- Stay Calm: Your emotions set the tone for your child.
- Model Healthy Boundaries: Use phrases like, “Every child is different. We’re learning what works best.”
- Take Breaks: Step away if conversations become overwhelming, and practice self-care too.
Giving Yourself Permission
The holidays might not always go as planned, and that’s okay. If a situation doesn’t go well, reflect with your child afterwards (when they are calm) about what they enjoyed and what was challenging. Kids often have their own ideas for what might help next time!
Remember, Every Holiday Is an Opportunity to Learn and Grow Together!