Pioneer Center offers tips for a successful holiday season
ROSS COUNTY – The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but for families of children & adults with disabilities, it can also be challenging and overwhelming. To ensure an inclusive holiday season, it is important to consider the unique needs of all individuals and create an environment that allows everyone to fully participate in the festivities.
“By implementing these tips, families can ensure that individuals with disabilities feel included and empowered this holiday season,” said Amy Beeler, Superintendent of the Pioneer Center.Parent Advocate of the Pioneer Center, Kristen Smith, and owner of Ewing Pediatric Therapy, Emily Ewing, have compiled a list of tips for families that will help make this year a success for everyone.
Plan in advance – Determine all details of your holiday events ahead of time and prepare your child for who will be attending, where the event will be held and what activities will take place. Familiarize your child with family members they may only see a couple of times a year using photos. Use a visual schedule or social story and create a countdown to help prepare your child. “A surprise visit from Santa at a family event could ruin a whole day,” says Smith.
Educate family & friends – Teach your family & friends how to include your child without causing stress. Family members often want to help, but don’t know how.
Prepare for sensory sensitivities – Things like decorations, visits from Santa, family photos, holiday food, cold weather, uncomfortable clothing and even opening presents can be triggers for individuals with sensory processing disorders. Practice your child’s exposure to things like bright lights, loud noises, and intense flavors. Bring your calming items such as sensory toys, favorite foods & snacks, or headphones if you leave home for the holidays.
Be patient – Let your child experience the holidays at their own pace. It’s okay if they don’t eat the same food or participate in all the same activities as the rest of the family.
Keep it simple & establish your own traditions – It’s okay to say “no” to events or activities that could be difficult for your child. Take a break and do something special that your child enjoys.
Explain holiday traditions – Educate your child about holiday symbolism or religious traditions that are important to your family using books, videos, or social stories. This can help them understand what to expect for each holiday.
Safety – Holiday gatherings can be chaotic. Designate a responsible adult to keep an eye on your child and set a time frame before passing the responsibility to another adult. Sharing this responsibility assures that your child is safe but also gives everyone time to relax.
Don’t have expectations – Not every event will go as planned. Be prepared to take a break in a safe space when needed. Have an exit strategy or safe space to go to and know if it is a good time to head home.“Remember to breathe,” says Ewing. “Don’t look at social media and compare your holiday experience to anyone else.”
This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Pioneer Center offers tips for a successful holiday season
