“The holidays can be a very hectic and chaotic time for everyone. For individuals with developmental disabilities, the holidays can mean an extra set of triggers, which can bring about new and unwelcome emotions. Triggers can include new sights, sounds, smells and activities that will throw the individual with a disability off their routine.” [1]
“When an individual with a developmental disability is thrown off their normal cadence, he or she may start to have severe anxiety, unhappiness, sadness or aggression towards the situation. This can cause the experiences or outings to feel very cumbersome or dreadful for those surrounded by that individual.” [1]
With a little planning ahead, some of this discomfort and anxiety can be avoided so everyone can enjoy the holidays.
Here are some tips for making the holidays safe and fun for everyone:
“Being proactive about people with IDD environment during the holiday season can help you and your family avoid unpleasant feelings and experiences. By taking certain precautionary measures during the holiday season, the chaos and confusion during this time can be negated and controlled. Avoiding holiday sensory overload may take strategic and constant efforts from the family, but will make for a more positive holiday season.” [1]
Resources
[1] https://www.24hrcares.com/resource-center/developmental-disabilities-and-holidays
[2] https://ilaonline.org/supporting-persons-with-developmental-disabilities-during-the-holiday-season/
[3] https://onewell.org/blog/inclusive-holiday-tips-for-idd/
[4] https://ablelight.org/blog/9-holiday-tips-for-people-with-disabilities-and-loved-ones/
[5] https://www.nevadaadultdaycare.com/holiday-activities-for-adults-with-disabilities/