November 13-November 17, 2023

PRINCIPAL’S CORNER:

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for many of our students, the festivities can bring about unexpected challenges, particularly when it comes to disrupted schedules. Children with diverse needs often thrive on routine and predictability, making the holiday season, with its changes in routine, decorations, and social interactions, potentially overwhelming. These disruptions can lead to increased stress and anxiety for our students, as they may find it challenging to navigate the unexpected changes.

Keep in mind these strategies to support your children:

Communication and Preparation:

• Provide advance notice of schedule changes whenever possible. This helps children prepare mentally for the upcoming alterations.
• Use visual schedules, social stories, or other visual aids to help them understand and anticipate changes in routine.

Maintain Consistency:

• Whenever possible, maintain some elements of the routine during the holiday season. Consistency can provide a sense of security.
• If there are unavoidable changes, introduce them gradually, allowing time to adjust.

Create Safe Spaces:

• Designate quiet and comfortable spaces where they can retreat if they become overwhelmed.
• Educate family members and friends about the need for such spaces and encourage their support in respecting your child’s boundaries.

Incorporate Predictability:

• Introduce predictable elements into holiday activities, such as familiar foods, music, or activities that your child enjoys.
• Establish a visual or verbal countdown to signal transitions between activities, reducing surprises.

Utilize Sensory-Friendly Approaches:

• Be mindful of sensory sensitivities and consider the impact of holiday decorations, lights, and sounds.
• Provide sensory-friendly options, such as noise-canceling headphones or a sensory-friendly corner at gatherings.

Encourage Flexibility:

• Foster flexibility by gradually exposing your child to new experiences and settings.
• Reinforce positive behavior and coping strategies, helping your child build resilience in the face of unexpected changes.

    Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving!