SpecialNeedsGifts.com Skill Building Holiday Gift Guide Nov. 2013 | Page 11

control of their surroundings and
prepares them for the final result.
Make sure your child knows how to
handle (or not handle) these
decorations once they are set up.

5.

Watch your own stress levels.
Your child may not be the only one
who needs a quiet zone or an easy
decoration schedule! Holiday stress
can infect any of us, and Friendship
Circle warns that this stress radiates
outward toward our loved ones
whether we're aware of it or not.
Reduce your child's stress by
reducing your own. Enlist friends and
family members to pitch in with the
holiday preparations, plan with care,
and allow plenty of downtime to
catch your breath. Keep in mind that
you cannot prevent every little thing
that might occur, and don't blame
yourself (or other adults) for any
bumps in the road you might
experience. Focus on the joy of
celebrating this time of year with our
loved ones, and you're bound to have
a happier holiday.

4. Get ready to travel. If the line "To
Grandmother's house we go" inspires
fear rather than happiness in your
special needs child, make that journey
easier by preparing it with care. Many
of the tips listed above will work just
as well in someone else's home as in
your own. Talk to your hosts in
advance and let them know that they
can do to make your child's stay more
enjoyable. Bradley Hospital advises
parents to explain all the trip details
to their children as well.

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