Christmas

Most people spend this time of year celebrating, spending time with relatives and over-indulging. It should be a time to relax, reflect and recharge.

But for many autistic children and young people and their families the festive season can be one of the most difficult times of year. Normal routines and daily life turn upside down as the unusual sights, sounds and traditions of Christmas take over. For autistic people who depend on routine, structure and predictability this can be challenging.

Read our top tips to help support autistic children and young people at Christmas.

Top tips

Read our top tips to help support autistic children and young people at Christmas.

No surprise gifts

As a general rule, autistic people are not a fan of surprises. They find it harder to read other people’s reactions and body language and so end up feeling worried about how respond in certain social situations without giving offence. Giving an autistic person a surprise gift puts them under a lot of pressure to respond ‘correctly.’

To avoid this, you could simply ask them what they would like and give them time and space to open their present. Depending on the person you may want to get rid of wrapping paper altogether, which is also better for the environment.

Personal space at parties

Christmas parties can create a lot of anxiety for autistic people. It’s not that they don’t want to be invited to parties or that they don’t enjoy them when they attend– but the loud music, crowds and flashing lights can have a more uncomfortable effect on them than on neurotypical guests. Turning down music, giving people space and providing a quieter area for breaks if they need them make parties more welcoming for all.

Christmas dinner options

Families up and down the country will have strong views and set ideas about what food is served on Christmas Day. Typically menus contain unusual food that is rarely served at other times of the year – such as Brussels sprouts or Christmas pudding.

This can be a bit of a nightmare for autistic people who struggle with the different textures and tastes of unfamiliar foods. Autistic people often rely on what they call “safe foods”. These will be different for every person – and may not be traditional ‘Christmas’ food – but it's important to stock up regardless to support your autistic guest.

Prepare for festive changes

From hanging stockings and eating mince pies to visiting Santa’s Grotto, Christmas involves many unusual traditions and changes to routines. Autistic people, who generally prefer predictability, can find these changes highly stressful. Preparing in advance for these changes is key. Autistic young people really appreciate plans and itineraries that explain when and why things are happening. Most importantly, if someone doesn’t want to join in – don’t make them!

Consider your decorations

Many would agree that Christmas crackers are loud, tacky and annoying, so do you need them? The same goes for brash decorations or flashing Christmas lights. Softer lighting and quieter music also help create a more welcoming environment. Why not involve autistic people in your decoration choices to create an atmosphere that works for everyone.

Let people do Christmas their own way

Not everyone celebrates Christmas, and for lots of different reasons autistic young people and their families may prefer to ditch certain ‘traditions’ and do things their way. If people aren’t taking part in the celebrations in the way you’d expect its best not to draw attention to it and let them enjoy Christmas their own way.