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Autism and Christmas

🎶 It's the most wonderful time of the year🎶

Or is it? Go talk to any family who has a child on the spectrum or who struggles with SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder), and they will tell you that this time of year is ROUGH!
I think sometimes we get so caught up in the spirit of Christmas and the traditions, that we forget this time of year is stressful for some people.
    Let's take a second and go back to the basics of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) or SPD. These kids usually struggle with lights, sounds, noises, textures, and people.
   
That is literally what Christmas is!!
   
Put yourself in their shoes a second.
   
It's flashing lights, and mobs of loud people and music all crammed in one spot so you can go sit on some weird old dude's lap, whose wearing a suit that feels strange, and you're in clothes that aren't comfortable. He's asking you what you want and if you've been good -- and for young kids on the spectrum they might not even know how the heck they are supposed to respond to those questions -- all the while mom and dad are trying to get you to smile and look at the camera that --spoiler alert-- is going to flash another bright light at you!
    So you melt down, Mom is sad because you've ruined another Christmas card, Dad is mad because Mom is sad, and your siblings are over here losing their mind with excitement that they got to talk to the weirdo in the red suit. And you don't even know where to begin dealing with all that.

Christmas can be magical for kids on the spectrum, but you need to check YOUR expectations.
I'm looking at you, mama who got sucked into a Pinterest dream. I'm talking about you, Grandma who always plans big family parties. You too fun Uncle who wants to start a snowball fight.

Here are a few ways to make this stressful time more enjoyable

1. Let them use the tablet and headphones during loud, busy events.
2. Let them spend extra time with the things they do love. My son really enjoys looking at Christmas lights, and driving around with him has become my favorite part of the holidays. You can set up the train set around the tree. Watch Christmas movies. Whatever it is, let them soak in what they enjoy.
3. Use candid photos for the family Christmas card. Embrace the uniqueness of your family!
4. Enjoy Santa from a distance until they ask to meet him.
5. Let them take breaks when they need them. There's nothing wrong with hanging out in the other room away from the party if it means they also get to enjoy their time.

You don't have to ditch all your traditions or turn Christmas upside down just because someone you love struggles with it. Just chose to be aware and accommodating where you can be, so we all enjoy the holiday season.

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