Tips to help make your holidays more enjoyable.

Holidays can be both exciting and challenging for individuals with FASD, especially children. Here are some tips to help make your holidays more enjoyable and less stressful.

Maintain Routine: Individuals with FASD often thrive on routine and predictability. Try to keep to their regular schedule as much as possible, including mealtimes, medication times, bedtime, and other daily regimens.

Prepare for Transitions: Changes in routine can be hard. Utilize calendars, visual schedules, or social stories to prepare your child in advance for holiday events or any differences in daily living.

Manage Sensory Overload: Holidays can be overwhelming with bright lights, loud music, and crowded spaces. Be mindful of sensory overload and provide a quiet, safe space where your child can retreat if situations or surroundings become overstimulating.

Limit Decorations: Keep holiday decorations to a minimum, especially those that are overly stimulating or might cause sensory issues (i.e., blinking lights, decorations with sound and strong scents).

Clear Expectations: Set clear, simple, and consistent rules and expectations. Individuals with FASD benefit from knowing exactly what is expected of them.

Use Visual Aids: Visual aids such as picture cards can help in explaining the events of the day, transitions, and appropriate behaviors.

Keep Gatherings Small: Large family gatherings can be overwhelming. Consider having smaller, quieter celebrations with fewer people, or plan for short visits and breaks in the day.

Be Flexible: Be prepared to leave events early if your child becomes overwhelmed or changing plans in the moment if something isn't working.

Focus on Familiar Foods: Holiday meals can be challenging, so include familiar foods that you know your child will eat.

Promote Inclusion: Involve your child in holiday preparations in a way that suits their abilities, like helping with decorations, setting the table, or choosing a movie to watch.

Practice Coping Strategies: Equip your child with coping strategies for when they feel overwhelmed, such as deep breathing, a quiet space, or a favorite toy for comfort.

Communicate with Family and Friends: Inform family and friends about FASD and your child's specific needs to foster understanding and support.

Plan for Downtime: Make sure there are opportunities for rest and downtime during the holidays to prevent overstimulation.

Acknowledge Achievements: Praise and acknowledge your child's efforts and achievements, no matter how small.

Self-Care for Caregivers: Look after yourself too. The holidays can be stressful, and taking care of your own well-being is essential to provide the best support for your child.

 The key is to understand your FASD superhero’s specific needs and plan accordingly. The goal is to create a holiday experience that is enjoyable and inclusive for the entire family.  You can do this!