Whether it’s the annual drive to Grandma’s house or a cross-country flight to visit extended family, the holiday season can bring unique challenges for individuals with autism. Our Senior Manager of Therapeutic Services, Amanda Trovato, PsyD, shares tips to help support your loved one through the holidays – plus great holiday gift ideas below!
Travel Prep
- Plan a flexible schedule and avoid overloading your child. Build in breaks and quiet time. Remember, even fun activities can be “battery draining.”
- Talk about the trip in advance. Create a visual or social narrative to explain what to expect (airport, security, plane, hotel) so your child can anticipate and understand expectations in each setting. Social Narratives PDF – Travel Toolkit
- If your child uses an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device, program it with vocabulary for describing what they might see, feel, or want.
- If flying, contact the airport ahead of time to share any sensory or support needs.
- Pack a sensory/comfort travel bag with items such as: noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, sunglasses, chew or fidget toys, a scented or aromatherapy stuffed animal, or a small scent jar (a container with cotton balls infused with a favorite scent for sniffing when overwhelmed).
Travel Days
- Make sure all devices (AAC, tablet, etc.) are fully charged and charger cords are easy to reach. Consider a portable charger in case outlets aren’t available.
- Dress your child in comfortable clothing and bring a familiar comfort item like a blanket or stuffed animal.
- If flying, pack snacks or gum to help with ear pressure during takeoff and landing.
- A window seat may be helpful if your child enjoys looking outside, or an aisle seat might be better if they need to get up and stretch occasionally.
- Plan sensory breaks with items from your child’s sensory bag. For longer trips, pack snacks and entertainment, and if driving, research fun stop spots to break up the time in the car.
At Your Destination
- Upon arrival, orient your child to the new space (hotel room, guest room) and set up familiar items.
- Keep key parts of the regular routine – mealtimes, bedtime, and wake time – whenever possible.
- Identify calm corners or quiet spaces where your child can retreat if feeling overwhelmed.
- Have an escape plan for sensory overload, such as taking a short walk or visiting a quiet room.
- Above all, be flexible! Adjust plans as needed and celebrate small wins along the way.
Holiday Gift Ideas
- Gifts that encourage or celebrate your child’s special interests
- Weighted blanket (for calming deep pressure)
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Visual schedule boards
- Chewable or fidget jewelry for sensory regulation
- Sensory play items such as kinetic sand, textured mats, or squish toys
For more tips from the Els for Autism team, including our Thanksgiving Social Narrative written by an adult with autism, visit our ‘Autism Tips’ blog section.
