10 Tips to help children with special needs enjoy the holidays

CHEVY CHASE, DC, December 8, 2023 - The holidays are upon us, and while there’s loads of merry-making and fun to be had – the changes and sensations of the season can add stress to the lives of children with special needs and their families.

The Episcopal Center for Children (ECC), a nonprofit organization serving children with special needs ages 514 in the greater Washington, DC area, offers the following tips to help.

“Children with special needs enjoy the holidays, but they are especially sensitive to the changes in routines that the holidays bring,” said Stephanie Nash, LICSW, president and CEO of ECC. “Making a plan, thinking about your child’s needs, and adjusting your expectations can help you create a positive holiday experience for the entire family.”

Tip #1 – Make a plan for the holidays and share it with your family. Create a schedule for your family’s holiday activities and post it for your child to see. You may find it helpful to use pictures to help a young child. Talk about the schedule with your child so he or she can anticipate what will happen.

Tip #2 – Remind your family about holiday plans. Review the schedule. Discuss the schedule with others in your home so they understand what is going on and how they can best support your child with special needs (and everyone else in the family) so everyone can have a fun holiday.

Tip #3 – For holiday gatherings, give your child a job and a plan. Ask your child to help collect coats, give out treats, or greet arrivals. Rehearse the plan. Give your child a schedule or plan for a festive occasion so he or she knows what to anticipate and when things will happen.