Making the Holidays Smoother for Your Sensory-Sensitive Child:

Practical Tips to Keep the Joy Flowing

Holidays bring so much fun, but for families with sensory-sensitive kiddos, it can sometimes feel like a balancing act. With routines flipped upside down, extra noise, surprise guests, and a few, uh, “helpful” comments from well-meaning family members, it’s no wonder things can feel a little intense! Here’s how to stay grounded, keep your child’s needs front and center, and create a calmer, happier holiday season for the whole crew.

1. Keep Changes in Schedule Low-Key and Predictable

Holidays often mean switching up the usual daily plan—travel, extended family gatherings, and all the things that can send our sensory-sensitive kiddos into overdrive. Here’s how to keep everyone in sync:

• Preview the Day: Walk through the schedule in advance and break it down into small steps. Let your child know when you’ll arrive, what activities to expect, and when you’ll leave so they know what’s coming.

• Set Some Boundaries: Give your child choices they can control—whether it’s what to wear, what small toy to bring, or when they’d like to take a break. A little say-so can go a long way!

• Plan for Flexibility: Holidays are full of “wait, what?” moments. Build in some flexible time between events so you’re not rushing from one thing to the next.

2. Prep for Potential Sensory Overload

Family gatherings are full of festive sounds, smells, and sights. All the fun can quickly become overwhelming, so here’s how to keep things sensory-friendly:

• Designate a Chill Zone: Scout out a quiet room where your child can decompress. If you’re hosting, create a cozy corner with familiar items like headphones, a favorite blanket, or a book to help them reset.

• Keep Decor Sensory-Safe: At home, opt for softer lights, and consider scaling back on any flashing items. For gatherings, bring along noise-canceling headphones or sunglasses to help reduce stimulation.

• Pack Calming Tools: Make a small “holiday toolkit” with sensory toys, fidgets, or snacks that help your child self-regulate on the go.

3. Ease into Surprises

For children who struggle with surprises, holiday traditions can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Here’s how to keep surprises in check:

• Introduce Traditions Gradually: Give your child time to get used to new holiday activities—let them observe before they jump in.

• Limit Unfamiliar Sensations: Skip loud traditions like poppers or scented candles if they’re too intense. Consider holiday comforts like a soft blanket or a sensory-friendly story instead.

• Try Out Social Stories: Social stories like Clipt’s “I’m Getting a Haircut” work wonders to build comfort in new situations. Try using them to explain gatherings, gift exchanges, or anything else they’ll encounter.

4. Gracefully Handle Family Judgement or Comments

Family get-togethers mean interacting with relatives who may not fully understand your child’s unique needs—and occasionally adding in some (unsolicited) “helpful” parenting advice. Here’s how to handle it:

Be Direct and Kind: A simple statement like, “We’re focusing on making this a calm, enjoyable day for [Child’s Name], so we may step away or do things a little differently” can clarify your intentions.

Stand Your Ground: Remember, you know your child best! Embrace the choices that work for your family, and don’t be afraid to skip certain activities if it’s in your child’s best interest.

Model Calm Empathy: If your child responds differently, show calm support and empathy. Your child will feel reassured, and others may see the positive impact of your approach.

5. Stick to Routine as Much as Possible

Amid the holiday whirl, routines can be a lifeline. Sticking to familiar foods, sleep, and downtime helps everyone feel grounded.

• Pack Favorite Foods: Holiday spreads are fun, but they’re often full of new flavors and textures. Bring a few favorite snacks or dishes for a bit of comfort food.

• Plan Downtime: Between events, make space for some quiet time—whether it’s a short walk, some reading, or a few minutes with music, it can do wonders.

• Stick to Bedtime Rituals: Familiar items like a favorite pillow, blanket, or bedtime story help recreate a comforting routine no matter where you are.

Clipt’s Mission: Spreading Acceptance & Compassion

At Clipt, we’re all about creating a safe, sensory-friendly experience that meets your family’s needs, whether it’s the holiday season or just an average day.

Our at-home haircut services are designed to bring calm and understanding right to your doorstep, allowing your child to feel seen, heard, and completely comfortable. This season, we’re here to support you in making every experience—big or small—a little bit easier and a lot more inclusive.

Here’s to making the holidays joyful for everyone!