Posted on Dec 2, 2022 in
NEWSWORTHY
The Laine Family: Mason and Nico both are thriving with autism, with dad Daniel, proud sister Robinh and mom Rowena. The family believes creating a holiday plan to share with family members or friends will prepare loved ones with autism for a happier holiday and brighten the season.
Real-world solutions to make the season bright.
The CDC estimates that 1 in 44 American children are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. You may share the holidays with a loved one on the spectrum. However, the lights, smells, crowds, busy schedules, and everything bright can be overwhelming to someone who is sensory-sensitive and thrives on consistency.
“Even under the best circumstances, holidays can end up being equal parts celebration and stress for our family,” stated Rowena Laine, mother of three, two on the autism spectrum. Rowena serves at Hope For Three, a local 501c3 nonprofit, providing outreach and support to families and the community, as the Family Assistance and Programs Director. “The loud and crowded gatherings, unfamiliar foods, company, house guests, or even just departure from familiar routines can send my kids into sensory overload. We recommend planning to make the holidays a bit merrier,” shared Laine.
- PLAN: Holidays do not need to be awkward for family members who are not used to dealing with meltdowns. Set expectations for who is coming to celebrate and try to ensure quiet time or a nap before the festivities are underway. Create a holiday plan you can share with family members or friends to set expectations and practice the plan. Think about precisely what your loved one needs to achieve success and how to explain these needs to others.
- LET GO AND LOWER EXPECTATIONS: Prepare for every eventuality you can imagine, and trust everything will work out. Have an exit plan if things go array. If you’re not home, know where a quiet room is located, or consider staying at a hotel so you can leave if needed. You and your family WILL make it to the New Year.
- BRING NECESSITIES: Arm yourself with whatever soothes your loved one with autism – a favorite toy, book, snack, etc., and build in extra time to deal with potential meltdowns. Prepare meals if your child is on a special diet or will not eat new foods. Bring meals you know they’ll enjoy and share the experience with others.
- EXPLAIN THEIR NEEDS: Before anyone has hurt feelings, be sure they understand specific needs; a gluten-free diet, will not eat new foods, a Christmas present provided if it’s the toy they’re expecting, and nothing else. Help extended family or friends by giving hints and tips about including the person in your care (and you) by modifying expectations, choosing specific foods, or turning on favorite TV shows. When flying, talk to everyone you can. Let the gate agents know your loved one has unique needs. Pre-boarding is an option to give extra time to adjust. Share with the flight attendants and nearby passengers your child has autism so they understand any unexpected behaviors. Traveling with a survival kit – noise-canceling headphones, favorite snacks, small toys, and an iPad loaded with preferred apps – may provide uneventful flights.
- KNOW THE KIDDOS: If a person with autism is visiting your home, ask the caregivers ahead of time how to help with their experience. Can they come early to familiarize themselves with the house? Simply finding out what’s on the menu can help. Knowing behavior strategies that work well during the year will help most caregivers and persons with autism prepare for the holidays.
Since 2011, Hope For Three has served as a beacon of hope for families with loved ones on the autism spectrum. Informative and engaging outreach and awareness, Teen Huddle, and Guy and Gal gatherings are a few opportunities to provide support to families year-round. For more information or autism resources, visit www.hopeforthree.org.
