Holidays
Holidays can be both the best of times and the worst of times for autistic individuals and their families. Changes in routine, increased social demands, crowds and gatherings, new activities, sensory overloaded events, unfamiliar foods and other out-of-the-ordinary experiences can all present challenges.
The best way to prepare for them is to plan. The following resources and stories, developed with autistic adults, families of autistic individuals, healthcare providers and other service professionals including members of our Autism Response Team, are a good place to start.
Fourth of July
Tips for an autism-friendly July 4th
Halloween
Happy Halloween: Making the holiday fun for everyone
Tricks to get treats: Autism- and budget-friendly Halloween costume ideas
Thanksgiving
Adjusting our family's Thanksgiving traditions for my son with autism
Thanksgiving for our family is so much more than just the food
Winter Holidays
Autism-friendly holidays: How to make sure all is calm and all is bright
Home for the holidays: Ways to make sure your autistic child enjoys their break
Leaning into autism: Adapt the holiday season to fit your needs
Santa Cares: Autism-friendly Santa events by Cherry Hill Programs and Autism Speaks
Tips for autistic people to make the holidays happy: Advice from an autistic self-advocate
General
Holiday Safety Plan: Preventing meltdowns, wanderings and accidents
Personalized Teaching Stories (for holidays and other special occassions)
Travel & autism: Five tips for success with toilet issues while on the road