December 11, 2025 | Clinics
The holiday season is a time for joy, traditions, and togetherness. Families and friends gather to celebrate, share meals, and create lasting memories. For many, these festivities are the highlight of the year. But for some individuals—especially those with developmental disabilities or other forms of neurodivergence—the holidays can feel overwhelming, stressful, or even daunting.
Understanding these challenges and offering support can make a world of difference. Here’s how you can help loved ones navigate the holiday season with comfort and confidence.
Why Holidays Can Be Overwhelming
Social gatherings often involve:
- Large crowds
- New environments
- Changes in routine
- Unexpected surprises
For individuals with autism or similar developmental differences, these factors can lead to heightened stress. Autism, for example, affects social interaction, communication, and adaptability to change. Children with autism may prefer familiar routines and find new activities uncomfortable, making holiday festivities particularly challenging.
Signs of stress might include:
- Emotional dysregulation
- Tantrums or meltdowns
- Regression in skills (e.g., potty training)
- Avoidance of communication or tasks
- Increased sensitivity to food, clothing, or touch
These behaviors are not always signs of regression—they often indicate high stress or disruptions in routine.
Practical Strategies for Support
Offer Choices
Choice empowers individuals and provides a sense of control. Behavioral experts often use “forced choice,” which means presenting two options in a “This-or-That” format. For example:
- “Do you want to play with blocks or color?”
- “Would you like to sit in the living room or the quiet room?”
Choices can be offered:
- Verbally
- Through pictures or visual aids
- By physically showing the options
This approach helps reduce stress and encourages positive decision-making. During holiday gatherings, choices might include:
- Going to a quiet space
- Eating preferred foods
- Engaging in a separate activity
Use Priming
Priming means preparing someone for an upcoming change or event. It involves giving consistent reminders to reduce anxiety and build trust. For example:
- “We’re going to the store tomorrow.”
- “We leave in one hour.”
- “Five more minutes, then we leave.”
Priming works best when paired with follow-through and consistency, helping individuals feel prepared and supported.
Final Thoughts
The holidays should be a time of joy for everyone. By recognizing stress signals and using strategies like offering choices and priming, you can create a more inclusive and comfortable environment for neurodivergent loved ones. Small steps can lead to big impacts—helping everyone celebrate the season with peace and happiness.
If you have questions about your child’s development, the first step is talking with your pediatrician. We’re here to help! Schedule an appointment today by calling us at (602) 243-7277.
We accept most insurance types including AHCCCS. If you need assistance applying for AHCCCS insurance or other benefits, click here to learn more.
