Holiday Survival Tips For Families
Thank you to Pat F. for sharing this article. https://wapave.org/holiday-survival-tips-for-families-with-special-healthcare-needs/
We wish everyone a Happy Holiday!
Before the gathering
Talk to the medical team: Consult your child's doctors about travel or gathering plans to ensure they are medically appropriate.
Communicate with hosts: Inform hosts about your child's specific needs, including dietary restrictions, medical equipment, and potential triggers. Ask about the venue's accessibility and if a private space is available for your child to rest.
Gather necessary supplies: Pack medications, any necessary equipment, comfort items like a favorite toy or weighted blanket, and health supplies like hand sanitizer and wipes.
Plan for medical emergencies: Find the nearest children's hospitals and pharmacies at your destination and save their contact information.
During the gathering
Maintain routines: Stick to your child's regular routines as much as possible to avoid medical and behavioral impacts.
Provide a safe space: Designate a quiet, comfortable area away from the main event where your child can rest and decompress if they become overstimulated.
Manage sensory input: Be prepared for loud noises, bright lights, and other stimuli. Bring noise-canceling headphones or other comfort items as needed.
Be flexible and take breaks: Recognize that gatherings can be tiring for everyone. Don't be afraid to leave early or take breaks when needed to ensure your child's well-being.
Encourage appropriate interaction: Let relatives know how they can comfortably interact with your child and set boundaries if needed.
At home
Plan new traditions: Create new, accessible traditions at home, such as baking, watching a specific holiday movie, or doing crafts together.
Adjust the schedule: Consider a "staycation" approach where you can control the environment, adjust mealtimes, and create a vacation-like atmosphere at home.
Preparation and communication
Inform hosts in advance: Talk to hosts or family members about your child's specific needs, such as a dislike of hugs or sensitivity to noise and suggest alternative interactions like fist bumps.
Use visual schedules: Create a calendar or visual schedule to help your child understand the upcoming changes in routine and countdown to holidays.
Discuss plans: Talk about upcoming plans to help manage anxiety about changes in routine.
Involve your child: Let your child participate in planning and decision-making, even for small things, to give them a sense of control.
Creating a sensory-friendly environment
Designate a quiet space: Set up a "safe room" or quiet area where your child can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.
Limit overstimulation: Avoid overly noisy or crowded events. If you must go, consider leaving early or have a plan for a quiet exit.
Adjust for sensory sensitivities: Be mindful of sensory triggers like bright lights, loud music, or strong smells, and plan accordingly. Some children may benefit from noise-canceling headphones or sunglasses.
Maintain routines: Keep routines as consistent as possible, especially for mealtimes, to provide a sense of stability.
During the holidays
Keep a comfort kit: Pack a bag with familiar items like a favorite toy, blanket, snacks, or a handheld device for entertainment to help your child feel secure in new surroundings.
Schedule downtime: Don't overbook. Ensure there is plenty of time for rest and relaxation, even if it's just a quiet afternoon at home.
Be flexible: Let go of perfection and be prepared to adjust plans. A few positive moments are more important than sticking to a rigid schedule.
Prioritize self-care: Remember that accommodating your child can be stressful for parents as well. Take time for your own well-being.
