How to prepare kids with autism for winter break

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The year 2020 is almost coming to an end. We continue to live in the pandemic since March. The holiday season is here Many students have started their winter break. Some will be starting next week 

We all know how our kids thrive on routine and consistency so it is important to prepare them for the break.

Use Social Stories.

Social stories are a great tool to help kids with autism understand the world around them. They can be used to prepare kids for upcoming changes or events in a concrete way by using visuals. 

There are many holiday social stories already available online which you can use to prepare your child for the upcoming holidays.

Use Calendars

Kids with autism tend to experience lots of anxiety. So we can use a calendar to prepare them for an upcoming holiday. This way they will know when the break starts and when the school will begin in the new year. 

Use visual schedules.

Visual schedules are a great tool to use with our kids with autism as they help them to understand what events will be happening throughout the day. This will help reduce anxiety.

Try to keep a consistent routine.

It is important to keep a consistent routine in terms of wake up time and sleep time for kids as it will help them to cope with changes during the holidays.

Keeping them busy during the holidays 

It is very hard for kids with autism to engage themselves. We must try to keep them busy during the holidays without overwhelming them. It is when they are  not engaged behaviours happen. Make a list of activities your child likes to do and offer them choices throughout the day so they can choose the activities. We can use puzzles, books, blocks, legos to keep them busy. They can even watch a couple of TV shows or watch some holiday movies if they like.

Minimize the use of Technology 

This year due to the pandemic we all have experienced a technology overload. Limit the use of gadgets during the holidays 

Try to limit the screen time for everyone in the family including yourself. Set up a daily time limit for use of iPads or other gadgets. Let your children enjoy some other activities.

Enjoy the holidays.

Don't try to micromanage your child's day as it will make you exhausted. Spend time enjoying the holidays as a family you deserve this.

I hope these strategies are helpful for you to prepare your child for the upcoming holidays. If you have any more suggestions do. comment and let me know.















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