1. As Brené Brown says”Clear is kind”!

The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but they can also bring about a lot of changes that may feel overwhelming for children. From altered routines to social gatherings, it’s important to remember that setting boundaries during this season can offer comfort and support. Here’s why:

Routine Disruption: With all the exciting holiday events, familiar routines often get shifted. This can create stress or anxiety for children and adults alike.

Sensory Overload: The bright lights, busy crowds, and new environments can be too much for children and even grown-ups who are sensitive to sensory input, leading to feelings of overwhelm.

Unrealistic Expectations: The holidays often come with so many plans, and it’s easy to feel disappointed when things don’t go as expected. Overcommitting to activities can leave everyone feeling frustrated instead of relaxed and joyful.

By setting clear and gentle boundaries, we can help create a sense of stability, allowing children to enjoy the holiday season with less stress and more peace.

2. Define Your Holiday Priorities

To help your family navigate the season with ease and warmth, take a moment to sit down together and define what truly matters to you this holiday season. Here are some gentle strategies to guide you:

Honor Your Own Needs: In the excitement and busyness of the holidays, it’s easy for your own well-being to get overlooked. Just as you prioritize your child’s routines, it’s important to honor your own needs too. Whether it’s setting aside time for rest, sticking to healthy habits, or carving out moments for self-care, make sure to identify those “non-negotiables” that help you feel grounded and recharged. By caring for yourself, you can be more present and enjoy the season with your loved ones.

Cherish Your Special Traditions: Reflect on the traditions and gatherings that hold the most meaning for your family. Whether it’s decorating the tree, lighting candles, or spending time with loved ones, decide which events are most important to celebrate and focus on those.

Honor Your Child’s Needs: It’s easy for routines to get lost in the hustle and bustle, but some aspects of your child’s routine—like sleep schedules or meal times—may need to remain consistent for their comfort. Make a list of those “non-negotiables” to help maintain a sense of stability and calm.

3. Communicate Expectations Clearly

Communication is one of the most compassionate ways to reduce holiday stress for everyone. Here’s how you can approach it with understanding and care:

For Your Child:

• Event Daily Agenda: Create a simple, visual agenda to help your child know what to expect throughout the day. This clear structure can reduce anxiety by giving them a sense of control and predictability, making the day feel more manageable and enjoyable.
  
• Review Social Skills and Manners: Take some time to gently review the social skills and manners needed around gift-giving, receiving, and attending gatherings. This can include practicing how to express gratitude, how to share space with others, and what to expect in social settings. By preparing them for these moments, you’re helping them feel more confident and comfortable in the holiday environment.

For Family and Friends:

• Be open about your child’s needs with kindness and understanding: Share any preferences your child may have in advance, such as needing a quiet space or a preferred seating arrangement, so they can feel more at ease. It’s also important to gently communicate any boundaries that help your child feel safe and comfortable, such as limiting unsolicited advice or physical affection if it makes them uneasy. By expressing these needs with compassion, you create a supportive environment where everyone can feel respected and comfortable.
  
• Offer your support to the host with kindness and generosity: Reach out to the host ahead of time and ask if there’s anything you or your children can do to help make the event go more smoothly. Whether it’s assisting with setting up, bringing a dish, or offering to help with cleanup afterward, this small gesture of support can make a big difference. If your child is old enough, consider offering them the chance to help in ways that feel manageable, like greeting guests or passing out drinks. This not only eases the host’s workload but also helps your child feel involved and valued in the celebration. Offering help with warmth and care shows your gratitude and strengthens your connection with the people around you.

Clear communication fosters understanding and reduces misunderstandings during gatherings.

4. Plan for Sensory Challenges

The holiday season can be overwhelming for all of us, especially with all the new sights, sounds, and activities. By using these thoughtful, ABA-informed strategies, you can help create a calmer, more comfortable experience for your child:

• Create a Safe Space: Set aside a quiet room or corner where your child can retreat to if things get too much. This safe space can offer them a sense of security when the noise or crowds feel overwhelming.
• Pack a Sensory Toolkit: Bring along items that provide comfort, like noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, familiar snacks, a cozy jacket, or a favorite book. These simple items can help ground your child when they need a break.
• Gradual Exposure: In the days leading up to the event, practice brief exposures to some of the holiday stimuli, such as music, lights, or decorations. This gentle approach helps your child gradually adjust to the sensory aspects of the holidays.

By being proactive and preparing in advance, you’re ensuring your child has the tools they need to feel safe, comfortable, and able to enjoy the holiday season.

5. Teach and Reinforce Coping Skills with Love and Patience

Helping your child develop coping skills is one of the most important gifts you can give them, especially during the busy holiday season. These skills provide them with the tools they need to manage stress and anxiety with confidence:

• Practice Deep Breathing: Teach simple, calming breathing exercises that can help your child manage anxiety in overwhelming moments. These techniques empower them to pause and regain control.
• Use Visual Prompts: Create calming cards with simple prompts like “take a break” or “ask for help.” These gentle reminders give your child the words and steps they need to navigate difficult emotions.
• Model Appropriate Behavior: Show your child how to handle the stress that sometimes comes with the holidays by demonstrating calmness and positive coping strategies. Your actions speak louder than words and set a loving example.

By teaching these coping skills, you’re not just helping your child in the moment—you’re giving them lifelong tools that will empower them to navigate the world with greater ease and resilience.

Looking for expert guidance? At L2L Consulting, we specialize in helping families create tailored ABA strategies to support their children’s unique needs. Whether it’s managing holiday stress or creating long-term behavioral plans, our compassionate team is here to assist. Contact us today and let us help you make every season brighter