The holidays represent moments of joy and family unity, but for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), these celebrations can turn into very difficult experiences – especially in the case of children with autism.
According to the 2022 Census of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), Brazil has 2.4 million people with autism, equivalent to 1.2% of the Brazilian population. Of this total, 1.4 million are men and 1 million are women.
Seemingly simple situations, such as loud music, crowded environments, interruptions in routine and unexpected physical contact, can generate sensory and emotional overload. For many families, this means dealing with meltdowns, irritation, isolation, or needing to leave events early.
“It is essential that parties are planned taking into account the sensory and emotional needs of the autistic child. Small adaptations can completely transform the experience and allow them to participate with greater calm and enjoyment,” analyzes Thalita Bosmoser, psychologist, ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) specialist and Vice President of the Genial Care Clinic, an atypical healthcare network specializing in autistic children and their families.
Fireworks: Why all the trouble?
The noise of fireworks is one of the main reasons Sensory stimuli During Christmas and New Year celebrations. For children with auditory hypersensitivity, very loud, explosive, and unpredictable sounds can cause pain, fear, anxiety, and sensory crises.
“The intense noise of fireworks can induce a sensory crisis due to the overload of stimuli. It is as if the child is unable to modulate the stimuli and becomes completely disorganized,” explains Thalita Bosmuser.
In São Paulo, State Law No. 17,389/2021 prohibits the burning, launching, selling, storing and transporting of fireworks throughout the state, which helps reduce the impact on people with autism spectrum disorder, the elderly and animals.
Routine changes and new environments
In addition to sensory stimuli, holidays bring another major challenge for children with autism: Routine changes The need to visit family homes or unfamiliar environments. People with autism spectrum disorder have a strong need to maintain a routine to feel safe and be able to regulate themselves.
“Families of children with autism usually organize their routine around this member, both in terms of household and social routines. Sudden changes in routine should be avoided and, when necessary, communicated to the child as soon as possible and as naturally as possible,” advises Thalita Bosmuser.
More inclusive holiday partiesQ
Through organization and compassion, it is possible to create a more peaceful and welcoming environment. With this in mind, Thalita Bussmoser shares some basic tips for making the holidays more comfortable for children with autism. check it out!
1. Predictability is key
Prepare the child in advance, explaining the time, place and reason for the party. Use visual calendars, photos and videos to show when celebrations are approaching and what’s coming up. Children with autism They find it difficult to deal with anything outside of routine, so predictability is a key strategy.
2. Create a space of refuge
Create a quiet environment, with familiar objects away from noise, where the child can retreat when he needs a moment of calm. Talk to your hosts in advance about this safe space.
3. Hearing protection
Use foam earplugs (available at drugstores and able to reduce up to 30 decibels) or noise-cancelling headphones. If the child has previously shown discomfort around fireworks, consider staying inside while they are burning.
4. Lighting control
Prefer decorations with neutral, steady lights rather than flashing lights that can cause sensory discomfort. Adjust the lighting intensity whenever possible.
5. Respect individual boundaries
Allow the child to choose comfortable clothing, even if it is not traditional for the occasion. Don’t force Social interactions And respect the time spent at the party. Always have an exit plan in case you need to leave the event early.
6. Keep familiar items
Take away favorite toys and comfortable objects, and if possible, keep some foods out of the child’s routine, and avoid drastic changes in diet.
7. Communicate with family and guests
Talk to guests beforehand and explain the challenges of autism spectrum disorder. Understanding and empathizing with attendees are key to creating a more respectful and welcoming environment.
8. Welcoming displays of affection
A close, affectionate hug (if the child accepts physical contact) can provide a feeling of trust, protection and comfort during times of stress. Affection is necessary to provide security.
“With these modifications, parties can become moments of real joy for the whole family. The important thing to remember is that each child is unique and may need Personal strategies. Therefore, monitoring with specialized professionals, such as occupational therapists and psychologists, is essential to develop the best approaches for each case.”
Written by Leticia Carvalho