by Erin Dugan
As we approach the holiday season, stores are filled with Christmas trees, wreaths and ornaments. Neighbors will set up extravagant light displays. Families will enjoy outings to winter wonderlands.
While I cherish the chance to create lasting memories, being a parent to an autistic child brings unique challenges during this festive time. We navigate these experiences, striving to ensure our child can enjoy the holidays just like any other child. The support from our local community makes a world of difference, helping us create meaningful moments.
On Halloween night you might have seen children with blue pails. A blue pail signifies that the child is autistic and may not have expressed the traditional “trick or treat” due to various reasons. They might have avoided full costumes because of sensory sensitivities or unfamiliarity with dressing up. Eye contact may have been fleeting, and their interest in the festivities varied. By using a blue pail, parents provided a subtle cue, fostering a more inclusive experience for their child.
As Christmas approaches, Santa and his helpers will be ready to hear children’s wish lists. For autistic children, communicating with Santa can be challenging. Shopping centers can be overwhelming with bright lights, loud sounds and bustling crowds. Some may prefer to skip sitting on Santa’s lap and opt to mail a letter to the North Pole. But what if they’re nonverbal or haven’t learned to read or write?
Enter Sensory Santa! I’ve seen this wonderful initiative in our community. It allows children to visit Santa in a calming environment with dimmed lights and minimal noise, featuring sensory-friendly items. This setup lets children acclimate at their own pace, ensuring they feel comfortable. You can capture that precious photo with Santa, a cherished memory every parent deserves.
By understanding and accommodating the needs of autistic children, we can all make the holiday season a joyful experience for everyone. Let’s celebrate our differences and create magical moments together!
Erin Dugan is a Realtor® with ROX Real Estate. She can be reached at 520.709.0990 or erin@roxsells.com.
