Marion Wilm OTR/L C/NDT is an occupational therapist at Child and Family Development- Pineville. This month, she relies on a favorite parent handout called “Surviving The Holidays: A Sensory Approach” by Lisa Make, LPC, RN. The tips include:
- Stick to schedules as much as possible. The more usual the routine, the easier holidays and re-entry will be.
- Conitue all daily therapy exercises, diets and supplements without interruption.
- Carefully choose the people you are around. They should know your child and be understanding, tolerant and helpful.
- If you child is old enough and appropriate, let him contribute ideas for the holidays.
- When travelling, take familiar objects (blankets, pillows, toys, books, etc.) for comfort.
- Plan activities with feasible sensory stimulation. Have an exit plan if things get too overwhelming or too boring. Schedule activities when crowds are low.
- Bring sound-muffling headphones to noisy places if auditory input is difficult.
- Have plenty of down time between celebratory activities.
- Provide information in advance of and during visits to unfamiliar settings. Creating a social story might be helpful.
- Use a calendar as a visual tool and mark off days to stay oriented to time and place.
- Take things off your to-do list and don’t overschedule.
- Take care of yourself! Receive a pampering gift, schedule a sitter and take time to appreciate the way things are which can also mean grieving what is not.
Click below to find more new posts throughout December by searching HOLIDAY.
