06/12/2025
Christmas looks different for everyone, and that is OK. If you want some top tips for planning your Christmas, keep reading.
Think about what Christmas involves for your family. Who will you see, what decorations will be up, what food will be served, what surprises will happen?
Consider how you can help prepare your child or young person for these. Visuals are often helpful, for example, a visual daily timetable to show what will happen when, or a calendar to show what will happen on each day of the holidays.
Speak to your child’s school/setting to see what changes in routine are to be expected (e.g., non-school uniform days, Christmas plays, school trips). Talk about these changes with your child, and talk to their school to see how you can support with these changes.
Create a safe space. Christmas can often be overwhelming, so having a calm and quiet room that stays the same as usual, can be really helpful. It might be a good place to keep special items or toys, where guests won’t go.
If your celebrations include gifts, then setting some expectations around this can be helpful. Will they be wrapped or unwrapped? Will they be given over a few days? Will telling your child what their gift is be more enjoyable for them? (e.g., you will have a Spiderman book for Christmas). It can also be helpful to explain to friends and family that your child’s reaction to presents may not be what they expect - and that is okay!
Involve your child in some decision-making. They could help choose decorations, music, and food to help them feel more comfortable with the changes to their normal routine and environment. You might want to consider constant lights (rather than flashing), use of ear defenders, and a visual food menu to support these changes.
Most importantly, do what works for your family. Make your own traditions and enjoy Christmas in a way that works for you.
Useful links:
https://parents.actionforchildren.org.uk/development-additional-needs/neurodiversity/send-christmas/
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/christmas-resources