Ah, winter break—a time of sparkling lights, holiday traditions, and, let’s face it, a touch of chaos for most families. For parents of children with autism, this period can feel like navigating a snowstorm without a map. Changes in routine, sensory overload, and the absence of structured activities can make this time both magical and challenging. But with a little planning and the help of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles, your family can create a season filled with joy, growth, and memorable moments. Our Akron ABA therapy team has you covered!

As ABA therapists, we’re here to offer guidance to make your winter break not only manageable but also meaningful for your child with autism—and for you.

The Power of Routine: Consistency Amid Change

One of the cornerstones of ABA therapy is the importance of routines. For children with autism, predictability brings comfort and security. Winter break disrupts the usual schedules of school and therapy sessions, but maintaining some level of routine can help ease the transition.

Practical Tips:

• Stick to Morning and Bedtime Rituals: Keeping wake-up and bedtime routines consistent can anchor the day and provide a sense of normalcy.
• Create a Daily Schedule: Use visual aids like a picture calendar or written checklist to outline the day’s activities. Visual schedules are particularly effective for children with autism, as they provide clear expectations and reduce anxiety (Knight et al., 2020, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders).
• Plan Regular Breaks: Build in quiet time or sensory-friendly activities to help your child regulate.

Familiar Activities: A Touch of the Expected

Amid holiday excitement, incorporating familiar activities can provide a calming balance. Our Akron ABA therapy principles emphasize leveraging strengths and preferred interests to maintain engagement.

Ideas to Try:

• Sensory Play: If your child loves water play or textured objects, incorporate these into holiday crafts, like making snow slime or decorating cookies.
• Favorite Outings: Visit familiar places, such as a favorite park or sensory-friendly venue, to balance the novelty of holiday events.
• Incorporate Therapy Goals: Turn therapy goals into games, like counting ornaments while decorating the tree or practicing social skills during family gatherings.

Visual Schedules: A Map Through the Holiday Maze

Children with autism often thrive when they know what to expect. Visual schedules provide clarity and reduce the anxiety of the unknown—a valuable tool during winter break.

How to Use Visual Schedules:

1. Plan the Day Ahead: Include meals, activities, and downtime. Use images or icons your child understands.
2. Highlight Changes: Mark new or less familiar activities with a special color or symbol to prepare your child.
3. Build in Choices: Allow your child to choose between two options for certain activities. This empowers them and increases buy-in.

For example, if visiting relatives is on the schedule, include photos of relatives, the house, and the car ride. Pair these visuals with a social story to further prepare your child.

The Magic of Reinforcement

Reinforcers are a fundamental part of our Akron ABA therapy, motivating children to engage in desired behaviors. During winter break, reinforcers can encourage participation in new activities and help manage challenging moments.

Practical Applications:

• Identify Preferred Reinforcers: Whether it’s a favorite snack, toy, or activity, use these rewards strategically to encourage desired behaviors.
• Offer Immediate Feedback: Reinforce positive behaviors as soon as they occur to strengthen the connection.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge progress, even if it seems minor. For instance, if your child tolerates a new holiday tradition for a few minutes longer than last year, that’s worth celebrating!

Studies have shown that reinforcement-based strategies are highly effective in promoting adaptive behaviors in children with autism (McDonald et al., 2018, Behavioral Interventions).

Transitioning Back: Preparing for Post-Break Routines

As winter break winds down, it’s important to gradually reintroduce regular routines to ease the transition back to school or therapy. Sudden changes can be overwhelming, so taking small steps can make a big difference.

Strategies for Success:

• Start Early: A few days before break ends, shift wake-up and bedtime routines to align with the school schedule.
• Practice School Skills: Engage in activities that mimic classroom tasks, such as writing, reading, or sitting for short periods.
• Preview the Return: Use social stories or visual schedules to show what the first day back will look like.

Parents: Know That You’re Not Alone

We understand that winter break can be daunting for parents. Balancing holiday traditions, family dynamics, and your child’s unique needs is no small feat. Remember: It’s okay to ask for help and to prioritize self-care! Even short moments of rest can recharge your energy and patience.

Lean on your support network, whether it’s extended family, friends, or your child’s therapy team. Many ABA therapy centers, including ours, offer holiday workshops or respite care to support families during this busy season.

Finding Moments of Joy

Despite its challenges, winter break is an opportunity to create wonderful memories. Whether it’s decorating the house, watching favorite holiday movies, or simply enjoying extra time together, these moments matter.

Children with autism often have unique ways of experiencing and expressing joy. Embrace their perspective, celebrate their progress, and find magic in the little things. The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful—they just need to be filled with love and understanding.

By applying the principles we use in Akron ABA therapy, like maintaining routines, using visual schedules, incorporating reinforcers, and preparing for transitions, you can create a holiday season that is both manageable and magical for your child.

Know that you’re not navigating this – or any season – alone. Our Akron ABA therapy team at Therapy & Wellness Connection is here to support you every step of the way. Together, let’s make this winter break a time of growth, joy, and cherished memories for your family!

Therapy & Wellness Connection – your connection to a life without limitations – provides ABA therapy to children in Akron, Cleveland, Brecksville-Broadview Heights and surrounding communities. We also offer summer camp, day programs, education services, vocational counseling and more. Call us at (330) 748-4807 or send us an email.

Additional Resources:

Preparing Your Child with Autism for Joyful and Stress-Free Holiday Celebrations, Dec. 7, 2024, FOCUS Therapy

More Blog Entries:

Hosting an Inclusive Holiday Celebration: Akron OT Tips for Friends & Family, Dec. 20, 2024, Therapy & Wellness Connection Blog