11/26/2025
The holiday season can be exciting, joyful, and full of connection, but for many children, it can also feel overwhelming. Travel, new environments, unfamiliar foods, busy gatherings, and disrupted routines can make this time of year challenging, especially for kids who rely on structure or who have sensory, feeding, or communication differences. If your child is having a harder time right now, you are not alone, and you are doing your best.
From an occupational therapy perspective, here are a few supportive strategies that may help your child feel more regulated and confident through the holiday season:
1. Support sensory needs.
Travel, new environments, and busy days can overwhelm kids. Build in movement breaks, use noise-canceling headphones, offer deep pressure, a comfort item, or a small fidget to help them stay regulated.
2. Keep routines where you can.
Predictability helps kids feel safe. Hold onto a few routine anchors (morning steps, quiet time, bedtime rituals). For changes like guests or staying elsewhere, preview the day ahead to reduce anxiety.
3. Use simple communication supports.
Holiday gatherings can be loud and fast. Visual schedules, clear choices, and practicing simple greeting or transition scripts can help kids feel more confident. Slowing instructions also goes a long way.
4. For food, focus on exposure, not pressure.
New holiday foods can feel big. Let kids look, touch, and smell before tasting. Always offer a safe food, and involve them in small prep tasks to build comfort at their pace.
5. Create a “safe space.”
Wherever you celebrate, set up a quiet spot with familiar toys, books, or calming activities. A short reset can prevent sensory overwhelm later.
Remember, the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.