Supporting Mental Health During the Holidays: Practical Tips for Families of Children with Autism

As we all know, the holiday season is a time of celebration offering joy, meaningful connections, new traditions and cherished memories. But it can also trigger stress, disruption, and sensory overload. For families of children with autism, this time of year can be especially challenging. At Chileda, we know that every child and family’s experience is unique, and we want to remind you: it’s okay to do the holidays YOUR WAY.   

Here are some practical strategies to help protect your family’s mental health, reduce stress, and create meaningful memories together this season. 

1. Acknowledge That Holidays Can Be Overwhelming

It’s easy to feel pressure to make the holidays magical, but it’s also important to acknowledge that this season can be difficult. Changes in routine, social gatherings, and heightened expectations can cause anxiety for both children and parents. Give yourself permission to let go of “perfect” and focus instead on what brings peace and connection to YOUR FAMILY.

2. Keep Familiar Routines When Possible

Predictability offers comfort. Try to keep consistent mealtimes, bedtime routines, and stick with sensory-friendly activities. If you know your schedule will change, introduce these adjustments early. Using visual schedules, countdowns, or social stories can help prepare your child for new experiences and reduce anxiety. 

3. Plan for Sensory Sensitivities While Attending Holiday Festivities 

The holidays often come with bright lights, load music, strong smells, colorful parades and crowded spaces-all potential sensory triggers. A little planning can make all the difference with fewer meltdowns and more smiles.  

• Bring comfort items like headphones, favorite toys, or fidget tools. 
• Choose smaller gatherings or quiet corners where your child can take a break. 
• Involve your child in choosing decorations or planning sensory-friendly traditions. 
• Consider taking a birds-eye view. Holiday parades often take place along streets with lots of businesses and hotels. Call around to see if you could watch from one of their lobbies or from a private or semi-private room. You’d be surprised how accommodating people are, if you just ask. 
• Don’t forget about sensory-friendly and special needs Santa visits. Do a simple Google search to explore what options are available in your area.

It’s important not to go to an event with any specified expectations of how you or your kids should or should not act. Just enjoy the experience. Your kids don’t have to look perfect. They can be in their PJ’s if that makes them happy. Just go. 

4. Communicate and Advocate with Family and Friends

Relatives and friends often mean well but may not understand your child’s needs. Before gatherings, gently explain what helps your child feel comfortable—whether that’s skipping certain activities, avoiding hugs, or having a quiet space available. Setting these boundaries ensures your child feels supported and allows others to be part of your success story. 

5. Care for Yourself, Too

One of my favorite sayings is “you can’t pour from an empty cup”. Parents and caregivers often carry the emotional load for the whole family, especially during busy times. Take moments for yourself, even if it’s just a few quiet minutes to breathe, stretch, or listen to calming music. Don’t feel like you’re alone on an island, connecting with other parents-through support groups or community programs-can remind you that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.   

6. Focus on What Matters Most

It’s not about picture-perfect holidays—it’s about creating moments of genuine joy and connection. Maybe that means watching a favorite movie together, baking cookies in a calm kitchen, or going for a family walk. The simplest moments often become the most meaningful memories. 

7. Reach Out for Support

If feelings of sadness, isolation, or exhaustion grow stronger during the holidays, remember that help is available. Speaking with a friend, family member or therapist, or even one of our experienced staff members at Chileda Shine  can make a real difference. Seeking help is a sign of strength—not failure. 

At Chileda, we’re here to walk alongside you. Our team understands the daily challenges and triumphs that come with raising a child with autism, and we are committed to helping families thrive-not just during the holidays, but all year long. 

Final Thoughts 

This holiday season, be sure to give yourself and your child the gift of grace. Focus on small victories, meaningful moments, and self-compassion. The holidays may look different for your family, but different can still be beautiful. 

 

Scott Grosskopf is a licensed social worker with over 17 years of professional experience. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in social work from Viterbo University in La Crosse, WI and a Master’s degree in social work from UW – Madison.  Prior to joining the Chileda Shine team, Scott worked at La Crosse County in Child Protective Services, Tellurian UCAN Care Center, the Family and Children’s Center in La Crosse, WI, and Inclusa. Presently, Scott is a Mental Health Consultant at Chileda Shine. In his spare time, Scott enjoys reading, singing with the local variety show Illusion, and spending time with friends and family.  

 

References: 

The Autism Community in Action. (n.d.). Autism and the holidays. Retrieved November 13, 2025, from https://tacanow.org/family-resources/autism-and-the-holidays/ 

Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Autism support, resources, and advocacy. Retrieved November 13, 2025, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/ 

Autism Speaks. (n.d.). Events. Retrieved November 13, 2025, from Events | Autism Speaks 

Gonyon, A. (2022, December 7). Holiday tips for autistic kids. Lighthouse Autism Center. Retrieved November 13, 2025, from https://lighthouseautismcenter.com/blog/quick-tips-for-celebrating-holidays-with-an-autistic-child/