Navigating Holiday Stress: 4 Practical Tips for Moms of Autistics

Thriving Moms of Autistics

Hi moms! Welcome back to another episode of the Thriving Moms of Autistics Podcast. Can you believe it is December already? Where did the year go?

Right now you are building up to the holiday season. It can be super stressful. That compounds the already ongoing stress of meeting your child’s needs.

I want you to know that you are not alone. There are many moms out there feeling it too.

Last year, the holidays did not pan out as I had hoped. Have you had one of those holidays? I think we all have.

It is complicated trying to make sure you understand what your child is asking for or even developing a Christmas list with your child.

Moms of autistics have many challenges because of their child’s communication needs.

In this episode, we explore strategies for managing stress and finding balance for managing your child's needs and the holiday traditions.

Find the full transcript for this episode on your favorite podcast app.

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Understanding Holiday Stress for Moms of Autistics

There are many challenges for autistics during the holiday season, such as group gatherings, noise, trying things that are new and uncertain, unusual foods, and so much more.

You might be on edge just thinking about family expectations and going to other’s homes. Others don’t always understand your parenting methods or your child’s needs.

It can be as simple as your child’s eye contact to their eating habits. They might not understand sensory overload with the loud noises, crowds, and bright lights.

The holiday is only once a year, but the change in routine can be daunting for your child.

My son has a hard time listening to someone while they are talking and maintaining eye contact. It is confusing to others because they think he isn’t listening. I might have to gently remind them that he looks away to be sure to capture all they are telling him and that it takes a moment for him to further process the information that he is being given.

We traveled a few hours for a family get together recently. We took a different route going home, which led to our son feeling overwhelmed. We planned it and prepared him for it. Unfortunately, there was a train and that triggered his overwhelm. We aren’t certain what it was about the train that caused his struggle, but will keep that in mind in the future.

A lot of prep work goes into preparing for the holidays. Sometimes, there are still struggles. We learn as we go.

Always remember that you are trying and doing your best.

How Moms of Autistics Can Manage Holiday Stress

Preparing your child for a holiday gathering is one thing, but you often have to prepare those attending the gathering too.

You aren’t putting others off by doing this. Your child’s needs are important and the preparation is justified. Your child comes first. If they’re feeling put off, that is their problem.

Here are some practical tips as you prepare for the holiday:

1. Be realistic in your expectations - No one knows what your child can handle better than you can. Sometimes our estimations are off a bit and that is okay. Give yourself some grace.
2. Creating a flexible schedule - Consider breaks needed during travel time. Get an early start to adjust for issues that occur along the way.
3. Prioritize essential activities - It is okay to step back away