Holiday Season: How to Prepare and Protect Your Kids

The holiday season is a time of joy, family, and celebration—but it can also bring challenges, especially for neurodivergent children. With a little preparation and mindful safety planning, you can help your kids enjoy the festivities while staying safe.

Emotional Preparation with ABA Strategies
Preparing your child emotionally can make a big difference in their experience. Here’s how:

• Create Social Stories – A short narrative explaining what will happen, what it will look like, and what’s expected. Social stories help reduce anxiety and make upcoming events predictable and understandable.

• Use a Visual Calendar – Mark important days and activities so your child knows what to expect.

• Practice Upcoming Situations – Role-playing or rehearsing routines can help your child feel more confident and calm.

Result: Less anxiety, more enjoyment, and smoother celebrations.

Real Safety Tips
During the holidays, we often worry about unlikely things and forget what really matters. Focus on practical safety:

• ⚠ Falls from decorations – Ensure ornaments, lights, and trees are secure.

• ⚠ Choking hazards – Keep small candies and toys out of reach.

• ⚠ Burns from candles – Use flameless candles or place real candles safely away from children.

• ⚠ Dangerous objects – Check your home for sharp, breakable, or unsafe items.

Medical tip: Before guests arrive, do a quick safety check of your space.

Key Principles: Preparation + Safety

• Practice the holiday routine.

• Check your environment for hazards.

• Teach simple, clear rules.

• Have a safety plan for emergencies.

• Reinforce positive behaviors to encourage cooperation and safety.

This holiday season, you can create happy and safe memories for your family. With thoughtful preparation and attention to safety, children can enjoy celebrations with confidence and joy.