Your Autistic Teen and Family Holiday Gatherings

This article is intended only as a friendly reminder of what to consider as you decide whether and how to participate in family get-togethers during this holiday season. You know your child: Choose and adapt these ideas according to your child’s very individual personality, development, and needs. You know yourself: Making a thoughtful decision can reduce any anxieties you may have about attending family events with your child. First, review if this is a good year to visit the relatives. Yes, we live in a culture that celebrates family togetherness at Christmas. But the needs and development of the child are more important than living out a cultural fantasy. If the extended family is rowdy and will overwhelm him; if there are family members who have unrealistic expectations; if your child is already under stress due to physical and social changes that come with the teen years, maybe this is a year to celebrate the holidays more quietly. Maybe, for example, it is wiser to visit the in-laws on a different day than everyone else. Maybe it would be a good idea to stay home, and Skype with everyone for a bit on the big day. To reduce your child’s stress, it may make sense to ask grandparents to visit you instead of going to their home. If you do decide to participate in family gatherings, the key to success is preparation of both the teen and the extended family. Preparing your teen: Use social stories: As you know, kids on the spectrum don’t do well with a change in routi...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Autism Children and Teens Family Holiday Coping Parenting Adolescence Autism Spectrum autistic teens exit plan holiday gathering Holiday Season Holiday Stress Holidays overwhelm self-management Sensory Overload Unrealistic Source Type: blogs