New Year’s Eve often means crowded parties and loud fireworks, which can feel overwhelming for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a little planning and creativity, you can make this holiday sensory-friendly and joyful for everyone in your family.
Preparing your child ahead of time
Helping your child know what to expect can make a big difference. One helpful tool is a social story, which is a simple, illustrated guide that explains what will happen during an event and how to handle it. Social stories are often designed for children with ASD or other sensory needs to reduce anxiety and build confidence. Here are a few examples you can explore:
You can also use a visual schedule to show where their usual routine might change for the day. This gives your child a sense of predictability, which many children with ASD find comforting.
Additionally, keep in mind the strategies you already know work for your family. If your family has explored applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for your child, you may already be equipped with some tools to navigate this holiday.
Planning for a party
If you’re hosting or attending a New Year’s party, let guests know you’re creating a sensory-friendly environment. Explain any supports you’ll have in place and remind them to respect your child’s boundaries.
Create a quiet space
Set up a calm area away from the noise where your child can relax if they feel overwhelmed. Include comforting items like weighted blankets and fidget toys so they can relax. This space can also double as a cozy spot for sleep if your child wants to go to sleep before midnight.
Food and drink preparations
At New Year’s parties, food and beverage tables are often filled with endless choices of foods and treats which can be intimidating for those with ASD. As a parent, do not be afraid to bring along some of your child’s safe foods to ease the pressure of eating.
Fireworks
Many guests will probably enjoy watching the Times Square ball drop broadcast or fireworks shoot off outside. Your child may also enjoy these activities but feel overwhelmed by the loud noises. A few alternatives you can implement include:
- Playing the Times Square ball drop broadcast without sound
- Bringing noise cancelling headphones
- Watching fireworks displays online with reduced or muted sound
In addition to the potential noise from fireworks, you can try swapping out common favors such as horns and confetti poppers for quieter ones such as glow sticks and bubbles.
Planning an at-home celebration
If a big party isn’t the right fit for your family, you can create a fun and sensory-friendly celebration at home.
Count down early
Consider a “Noon Year’s Eve” celebration instead of a midnight one. This works well for children who prefer an earlier bedtime. You can:
- Watch the Times Square ball drop broadcast from last year
- Make a DIY ball drop
- Decorate with balloons
- Play with sensory-friendly party favors, such as glow sticks and bubbles
Celebrate with a themed dinner
Introduce festive foods and drinks, such as various appetizers and sparkling grape juice, in a low-pressure way by serving them at home. Pair this with a social story to explain New Year’s traditions and let your child dress up if they want. Make sure to keep their favorite foods available so they feel comfortable.
Maxim Behavioral
Celebrating the new year in a way that works for your family is possible with planning and flexibility. At Maxim Behavioral, we understand that the holidays can bring unique challenges for families of children with ASD. If you’re looking for guidance to help your child thrive during the holidays and beyond, reach out to your local Maxim office for more information.
