Planning Sensory-Friendly Holiday Activities for All Ages

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The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and creating memories. However, for individuals with sensory sensitivities, the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming. Planning sensory-friendly holiday activities can ensure that everyone, regardless of age, can enjoy the festive season in comfort. Here’s a guide to creating inclusive, sensory-friendly holiday activities that cater to all ages.

Understanding Sensory Sensitivities

Sensory sensitivities can affect individuals differently. Some may be sensitive to lights, sounds, or textures, while others may find certain smells or crowded spaces overwhelming. Recognizing these sensitivities is the first step in planning inclusive activities.

Common Sensory Sensitivities

  • Bright or flashing lights
  • Loud or sudden noises
  • Crowded or cluttered environments
  • Strong or unfamiliar scents
  • Certain textures or physical sensations

By understanding these triggers, you can create a holiday environment that is welcoming and comfortable for everyone.

Your journey to empowered living starts with the Neurodivergent Mom’s Self Discovery and Empowerment Toolkit

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment

The setting of your holiday activities plays a crucial role in managing sensory sensitivities. Here are some tips to create a sensory-friendly environment.

Adjust Lighting Use soft, ambient lighting instead of bright or flashing lights. Consider using battery-operated candles or string lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere without overwhelming the senses.

Control Noise Levels Keep background music at a low volume and avoid sudden loud noises. Consider providing noise-canceling headphones or earplugs for those who may need them. Creating a quiet space where individuals can retreat if they feel overwhelmed can also be beneficial.

Manage Scents Avoid using strong-smelling candles or air fresheners. Opt for natural scents, such as pine or cinnamon, in moderation. Be mindful of any allergies or sensitivities to specific scents among your guests.

Inclusive Holiday Activities

Planning activities that cater to different sensory needs can ensure that everyone has a positive and enjoyable experience. Here are some inclusive holiday activity ideas:

Sensory Crafting Set up a craft station with various textures and materials, such as soft felt, glitter, and scented markers. Activities like making ornaments, decorating cookies, or creating holiday cards can be engaging and soothing. Provide clear instructions and allow individuals to work at their own pace.

Quiet Storytime Organize a quiet storytime session with holiday-themed books. Choose stories that are comforting and familiar. Create a cozy reading nook with soft pillows and blankets to enhance the experience.

Gentle Outdoor Activities Plan outdoor activities that are calming and enjoyable, such as a nature walk or a visit to see holiday lights. Ensure the activities are not too physically demanding and allow for plenty of breaks.

Sensory-Friendly Games and Entertainment

Games and entertainment are essential parts of holiday celebrations. Choose activities that are fun and inclusive for all sensory preferences.

Holiday Bingo Create a holiday-themed bingo game with visuals and simple words. This can be a fun, low-stress activity that encourages interaction without overwhelming the senses.

Calm Down Jars Make calm down jars with glitter and water. Shaking the jar and watching the glitter settle can be soothing and provide a quiet, engaging activity for both kids and adults.

Sensory-Friendly Movies Host a movie night with sensory-friendly films. Choose movies with gentle visuals and sounds, and create a comfortable viewing area with plenty of seating options. Provide fidget toys and weighted blankets for added comfort.

Adapting Traditional Holiday Activities

Many traditional holiday activities can be adapted to be more sensory-friendly. Here are some ideas to modify classic holiday traditions:

Sensory-Friendly Decorating When decorating, use fewer flashing lights and more soft decorations, like fabric garlands and paper snowflakes. Allow individuals to participate in the decorating process at their own pace and comfort level.

Modified Gift-Giving Create a calm and structured gift-giving environment. Open gifts in a quiet space with small groups to reduce sensory overload. Encourage guests to wrap gifts in sensory-friendly materials, like soft cloth or simple paper, to avoid the noise of crinkling wrapping paper.

Quiet Baking Sessions Baking holiday treats can be a fun and sensory-rich activity. Keep the kitchen calm by limiting the number of participants and using soothing music. Allow time for individuals to take breaks and avoid overwhelming scents by baking in small batches.

Preparing for Sensory Needs

Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable holiday season for everyone. Here are some tips to prepare for sensory-friendly holiday activities:

Communicate Expectations Clearly communicate the schedule and expectations of holiday activities to all participants. Use visual schedules or social stories to help individuals understand what to expect.

Plan for Breaks Incorporate regular breaks into the schedule to allow individuals time to recharge. Designate a quiet area where they can retreat if they need a sensory break.

Be Flexible Be prepared to adjust activities based on the needs and comfort levels of participants. Flexibility is crucial in creating a stress-free and enjoyable environment.

Conclusion

Planning sensory-friendly holiday activities ensures that everyone, regardless of age or sensory sensitivity, can enjoy the festive season. By creating a supportive environment, choosing inclusive activities, and being mindful of sensory needs, you can make the holidays a joyful and comfortable time for all. Embrace the season with heart, humor, and a focus on inclusivity, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Your journey to empowered living starts with the Neurodivergent Mom’s Self Discovery and Empowerment Toolkit

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Kori

Digital Product Creator at Kori at Home
Hey there! I'm Kori, a neurodivergent mom and certified Life Coach, here to empower moms raising neurodiverse families. Diagnosed with ADHD and Autism at 37, I've turned my passion for neuronerdery into practical parenting tools. With a stack of coaching certifications and a love for 80s pop culture, Marvel movies, and all things brainy, I'm here to help you and your family thrive in this neurotypical world.

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