We all love a good holiday, with many of us taking time off work and spending time with friends and family. There are so many public ones to choose from as well. We have the big hitters like Christmas, Halloween, Dilwali, Hanukkah and Eid al-Fitr alongside the flash in the pans like the 5th of November and the Bank Holiday Mondays. Unfortunately, not all holidays are as relaxing and fun for everyone, but with a little planning they could be.

If you or your family have a form of neurodiversity, holidays can spell a change from routine, whether it be obligations to visit others or a day off from work. This can bring extra challenges. People with autism rely on routine and too much over stimulation in the form of seeing lots of people at once or noises such as music or loud unexpected bangs, can result in a shutdown or meltdown which can be exhausting.

People with ADHD can be excited at the newness or change of routine, but can easily get overwhelmed at the planning stage, whether its planning a party or even figuring out what to wear and where to meet friends.

Luckily there’s lots we can do to support our loved ones no matter what the holiday season.

Supporting neurodivergent individuals during holidays and celebrations can make a significant difference. Here are some ways to help:

1. Set Clear Schedules: Create a detailed schedule of events to provide structure and predictability.
2. Have Backup Plans: Prepare alternative plans in case the original ones change.
3. Pace Activities: Avoid overloading the schedule. Allow for breaks and downtime.
4. Set Boundaries: Encourage setting personal boundaries to avoid overwhelming situations.
5. Ask for Needs: Encourage people to communicate their needs and preferences.
6. Avoid Overstimulation: Minimise exposure to loud noises, bright lights, and crowded places.
7. Create a Safe Space: Ensure there is a quiet, comfortable space available to retreat to if needed.
8. Simplify Traditions: Adapt holiday traditions to be more manageable and less stressful.
9. Respect Choices: Support people’s decisions to skip certain events or activities if they feel uncomfortable.
10. Provide Emotional Support: Be understanding and offer emotional support when a person feels stressed or anxious.

These strategies can help create a more inclusive and enjoyable holiday experience for neurodivergent individuals. Do you have any specific holiday plans in mind where you might need more tailored advice? Contact us – we are always happy to help!