Surviving the Holiday Season

The Community Advisory Committee for Special Education received a presentation on Surviving the Holidays.  "Are We Having Fun Yet? Surviving and even enjoying the holiday season" was presented to the Community Advisory Committee on Tuesday December 1st as a way to support parents in their preparations for the holidays.  Check out the power point presentation by clicking here. 

Some tips from the presentation include:

• Know the schedule and make sure all are aware of the schedule.  Include your children on the schedule preparation.  Also, prepare your family members if you are planning to leave by a certain time or before a certain activity begins. 
• Manage sensory overload, be aware of sights, smells and sounds that may be overwhelming. 
• Remember to have fun!
• Refocus the conversation!  If the conversation is less than desirable be prepared to change the subject.
• Have realistic expectations.
• Eat in shifts if needed. 
• Plan ahead when you are leaving and have a code word if you need an escape. 
• Take care of yourself.
• Help guide the gift selection by giving choices or allow to look at catalogs and select top choices. 
• One day is .27% of the year, that is all it is! 

Have a wonderful holiday season and take some time to enjoy the winter break with your children!