challenges may have the most difficulty adapting to schedule changes, visits to unfamiliar places, and introductions to new people and foods. The following tips give parents and caregivers some ways to maintain the joy of the season.
- Prepare your child well in advance of all events.
- Give your child a role in which they can be successful.
- Help your child select or make gifts.
- Tell children what will happen and what you expect them to do. Be specific, such as: The guests will arrive after 6. We will have the dinner together and I need your help in preparation.
- Preview guests or people you will visit with photos; rehearse names and relationships.
- Practice as a role-play for greeting guests, receiving gifts, etc.
- Take a favorite food or toy along when leaving home and changes in routine cannot be controlled.
- Prepare relatives and friends for the potential of unusual behavior or if your child’s actions may be misinterpreted. John doesn’t like to be hugged. Noel doesn't like cats.
- Help your child fit into social situations, conversations and group activities.
- Try to attend a Christmas Mass that isn’t too crowded.
- Stagger the opening of presents throughout the day or longer.
- Ensure your child when furniture is moved and items are put away, that this is just temporarily happen, so they know familiar things will return after the holidays.
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