Helping Children Meet Their Full Potential Faster
At Caliber Autism & Pediatric Therapy, we often hear from families in Troy, Michigan, that the holidays bring a mix of joy and stress, especially for children with autism who thrive on routine and predictability. While the season is full of celebrations, bright lights, and busy schedules, these same elements can feel overwhelming for a sensory-sensitive child. With a bit of planning, understanding, and support, the holidays can still be meaningful, calm, and even joyful for your entire family.
At Caliber, we see how even small changes to a routine can make a big difference for a child. Many of the families we work with at our Troy clinic share that holidays can be both exciting and challenging, so planning really matters. Children with autism often feel best when things are predictable, and sudden changes or surprises can lead to anxiety or meltdowns, which is why preparation and clear communication help them feel safer.
Use calendars and visuals: Help your child understand what will happen during the holidays by using clear, simple tools. A marked calendar, a visual schedule, or a short social story about your holiday events and traditions can help them know what to expect.
Involve your child: Let your child help with holiday preparations, like choosing a few decorations or looking at photos from past celebrations. When they participate in the process, environmental changes feel less sudden and frightening.
Take things slowly: If your child struggles with change, decorate your home in stages instead of all at once. For example, one day you can put up the tree, the next day add ornaments, and later add lights, using a simple visual schedule to show each step.
Communicate clearly: Once decorations are up, explain in clear, simple language what your child can touch and what needs to stay in place. Clear expectations help everyone feel calm and safe.
Prepare your child: Talk with your child ahead of time about who will be visiting or where you will be going. You can show pictures of family members, describe what the gathering will look like, and let your child know which greetings are acceptable.
Prepare your guests: Gently explain your child’s preferences to family and friends, such as not liking hugs, loud voices, or surprise touches. When everyone understands your child’s needs, it helps prevent anxiety and behavioral incidents.
Create a safe space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your child can go if things feel too busy. Include favorite toys, books, or noise-canceling headphones so your child has a familiar, calming place to reset.
Break activities into steps: Holiday activities, such as choosing a tree or shopping, can feel overwhelming for many children. Break each activity into simple, clear steps and, if helpful, use pictures or a short checklist to help your child know what will happen next.
Let your child choose: Offer small, manageable choices, such as which store to visit first, which ornament to hang, or which tree to pick. Having choices builds confidence and gives your child a sense of control.
Bring a sensory kit: Pack a small bag with your child’s favorite toys, snacks, and comfort items, such as a fidget toy or a soft blanket. These familiar items can make new or busy environments feel safer and more predictable.
Prepare for travel: Whether you are staying nearby or visiting family in another city, keep your child’s favorite foods, books, and toys within easy reach. These items can help prevent stressful moments during car rides or other travel.
Use social stories: Before you travel, use social stories or simple explanations to describe what might happen, such as traffic, waiting times, or weather delays. When your child understands the possibilities, change feels less frightening.
Be ready for changes: Plans sometimes shift at the last minute. If this happens, stay calm and offer your child small choices, like which snack to eat or which game to play, so they still feel some control.
Do what works for your family: The holiday season can be hectic, but you do not have to attend every event. Focus on traditions and activities that feel right for your child and your family, and remember that it is okay to say no or adjust plans when things feel overwhelming.
Make plans in advance: Create a simple holiday plan for your family and share it with anyone involved. When everyone knows what to expect, the day tends to run more smoothly and be more relaxed.
Use visual aids: Visual schedules or picture lists can help your child understand the plan for each day. This reduces uncertainty and can prevent meltdowns.
Alert others of sensitivities: If your child is sensitive to sounds, smells, textures, or lights, let hosts or relatives know ahead of time. Small changes, such as lowering the music volume or dimming the lights, can make a big difference.
Bring calming items: Pack your child’s favorite comfort items, such as a stuffed animal, book, or sensory toy, when you visit others. Familiar items help your child feel calm, even in new places.
Stick to routines: Try to keep parts of your child’s daily routine, like mealtimes or bedtime, as consistent as possible. A predictable rhythm helps your child feel safe, even on special days.
Keep decorations stress-free: Put up decorations gradually and choose items that are less likely to trigger sensory discomfort. This gives your child time to adjust to environmental changes.
Create a calm-down area: Whether you are at home or visiting someone else, set aside a quiet spot where your child can go if they feel overwhelmed. Let your child know that this space is always available when they need a break.
Schedule free time: Leave some open time in your calendar so your child and your family can rest between events. Slowing down helps prevent everyone from feeling overloaded.
Opening gifts: Opening many gifts at once can be overwhelming, especially at busy gatherings. Try opening one gift at a time, taking breaks between gifts, or bringing some gifts home to open later in a calmer setting.
Winter weather: Some children are uncomfortable with cold weather or winter clothing. Use simple stories or visual cards to explain why warm clothes matter, and let your child help choose their own hat, gloves, or scarf so they feel more comfortable wearing them.
Interacting with loved ones: Share a few helpful strategies with family and friends, such as greeting your child softly or giving them time to warm up. This helps your child feel respected and more willing to connect.
We work closely with families in our community to make everyday life—and memorable moments—feel easier and more meaningful. Our team provides individualized therapy and family coaching based on each child's unique strengths. Many families also explore our ABA therapy and pre-K readiness programs, which provide additional support for routines, transitions, and school preparation. These services help children build confidence and essential daily living skills in a supportive environment.
If you’re looking for guidance, our team at Caliber Autism & Pediatric Therapy in Troy would be honored to learn more about your child. You can reach us through our online form, and we’ll gladly walk you through how our ABA and related services can support your family.
