Navigating the holidays with your autistic child

School holidays can bring relief from routines but may also create uncertainty for families of autistic children.

Without the structure of the preschool and school days, children may find it difficult to regulate, and parents may feel pressure to plan activities while maintaining calm. With some preparation and realistic expectations, families can approach the break with confidence, helping their child feel safe and engaged.

Maintaining structure during the holidays

Keeping some routine during the holidays helps children feel secure. Even if the middle of the day changes, consistent wake-up and sleep routines provide a foundation.

Visual schedules or calendars can outline daily events, helping children anticipate what is coming next. Differentiating between home days, activity days, and rest days gives children a clear sense of the day’s flow.

Planning ahead to reduce anxiety

Preparing for new or unknown situations reduces stress. Researching destinations, looking at photos or videos, and visiting briefly beforehand can make environments feel familiar.

Calling venues to ask about quieter periods or sensory supports is often helpful. Including children in planning, where appropriate, can turn preparation into a meaningful activity and help them feel more confident.

Balancing activity and rest

Finding the right balance between activity and downtime is essential. Overly busy schedules can overwhelm children, while too much unstructured time may lead to frustration.

Scheduling breaks and keeping outings short and predictable allows children to enjoy experiences without becoming overstimulated. Quiet days at home can be as valuable as outings, and celebrating small successes helps maintain positive experiences.

Supporting sensory needs

Sensory experiences can be heightened during the holidays. Packing comfort items, such as headphones, fidgets, or a weighted blanket, can help children regulate. Identifying quiet spaces in advance ensures children have somewhere to retreat if they feel overwhelmed.

Planning sensory breaks throughout the day, rather than reacting only when necessary, can make outings more manageable.

Managing routine changes and social expectations

Holiday events often involve changes in routine and new social situations. Explaining upcoming events with clear language, visuals, or social stories helps children understand what to expect.

Practising situations, such as greetings or entering new spaces, can be helpful. Parents can adapt events to suit their child’s needs, including stepping away when necessary.

Accessing supports and community resources

We encourage parents to use community supports. Allied health professionals can provide strategies tailored to the child’s needs.

Many venues now offer sensory maps, quiet rooms, or fully fenced playgrounds. Booking tickets in advance and calling ahead to discuss accommodations can make outings smoother and less stressful.

Preparing for the unexpected

Even with careful planning, things may not go as expected. Having a contingency plan allows parents to respond calmly.

Reflecting on what worked well and adjusting for next time can turn challenges into learning opportunities. Progress may be gradual, and consistency rather than perfection should remain the goal.

Supporting your child and family

Every child’s experience of the holidays is different. By maintaining routines, planning ahead, addressing sensory needs, and practising flexibility, parents can create a supportive holiday environment.

Observing progress and seeking guidance when needed ensures children feel safe, confident, and able to enjoy the school break.

You can book a FREE, no-obligation telephone consultation with our friendly and informative team. There’s no pressure, just a chance to talk through your child’s needs and explore the services that could be the best fit, whether that is with us or elsewhere.