24/12/2025
Christmas can be magical, but it can also be overwhelming for some children. Here are a few gentle tips to help make the season feel safer and calmer. 🎄✨
👀Visual Tips
* Steady Lights: Use warm white lights instead of flashing, multicolored ones.
* Reduce Clutter: Decorate minimally to avoid overwhelming displays.
* Dimmer Switches: Control light intensity where possible.
👂🏻Auditory Tips
* Noise Reduction: Use ear defenders in loud environments.
* Calm Music: Play soft background music or listen to calming playlists.
* Quiet Spaces: Designate a calm, quiet room for breaks.
💪🏻Tactile & Proprioceptive Tips
* Comfortable Clothes: Wear cozy clothes - Avoid scratchy fabrics.
* Weighted Items: Use weighted blankets or lap pads for deep pressure.
* Fidgets & Chews: Provide fidget toys, chewable jewelry, or gum for self-regulation.
👃🏼👅Olfactory & Gustatory Tips
* Familiar Foods: Offer preferred snacks and drinks, like hot chocolate.
* Sensory Bins: Create bins with scented rice, playdough (gingerbread, candy cane), or water.
🏈🩰Activity & Routine Tips
* Flexibility in activities: Adjust activities to your needs; don’t overcommit.
* Plan for Breaks: Schedule downtime and have an exit strategy for busy events.
* Sensory Preparation: Use pictures or social stories to prepare for new experiences.
* Calm Play: Enjoy sensory activities like making cookies or watching movies.
* Sensory backpack: include fidget toys and crunchy/chewy snacks
Inspired by the best at Hopschotch Children’s Therapy Center and .mylonadis ❤️🎄🎅🏻