How to Avoid Holiday Meltdowns in Sensory-Sensitive Kids

https://youtu.be/Xqn7YRAh4VM

Even though the holiday season is full of excitement, it can be difficult for sensory-sensitive kids as it can overwhelm them. From loud music to crowded spaces and changes in their routine, many children feel helpless as they try to manage their emotions, which can often lead to meltdowns

Whether your child is in the classroom or at home, planning ahead can allow your child to enjoy this joyful holiday season.

Putting the following strategies into place will enable you all to create happy holiday memories instead of stressful ones.

Actionable Steps:

#1. Enjoy Holiday Parties

Many children who have sensory-sensitivity, find comfort in knowing exactly what to expect from day-to-day or when they attend an event. Therefore, you may want to consider doing the following to help your child:

1. Post up a visual schedule so that your child knows what to expect from their day.
2. Discuss social events and expectations ahead of time.
3. Review coping strategies if they feel overstimulated.

If you need ready-to-use behavior or classroom management resources for routines, calm-down strategies, and transitions, check out my Classroom Management & Community Resources.

#2. Manage Sensory Overload

If possible, prepare for different circumstances if your child feels overwhelmed by their environment.

1. Find a place for your child to calm down if they are close to a meltdown.
2. Take fidgets so that your child can move if they need to.
3. Create a safe space for your child to destress. You can get a step-by-step guide with hands-on activities by clicking on the images below. Choose the ones that meet the needs of your children.

#3. Plan Ahead

So that your children aren’t struggling, it’s good to involve them in the planning process. This way, you’re prepared for exactly what they need. You can start by asking them the following three questions:

1. Which activities they want to participate in.
2. What helps them when they are overwhelmed by their environment.
3. If they are struggling and you are not around, who can they go to for help.

The goal is to ensure that your child feels safe and secure while also being able to enjoy this festive time of the year.

Recap:

Let’s recap really quickly. Today, we looked at the following:

1. The reason why we should plan to minimize meltdowns ahead of time when possible.
2. How to avoid holiday meltdowns in sensory-sensitive kids: enjoy holiday parties, manage sensory overload, and plan ahead.

Free Resources:

For a meaningful Christmas activity to do with your students or on your own, download your FREE COPY BY CLICKING HERE.

Next Steps:

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I’ll see you next Friday at 5:30pm PST.

Until I see you next time, remember to create, experience & teach from the heart.

Take care,

Charlotte

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Disclaimer: I’m a teacher and a parent. I’m not a medical professional, so please don’t take this as medical advice. The advice that I provide in my videos and online are strategies that I have used in my own class or at home that have worked beautifully.