The holiday season is a fun time to celebrate with family and friends and you can make it better with these 10 Ways to Be More Inclusive This Holiday Season.
The days often consist of family parties and gift-giving.
However, sometimes those with special needs can feel left out of the festivities.
So, here are 10 Ways to Be More Inclusive This Holiday Season.
Photo by Laura Beth Snipes on Unsplash
Table of Contents
Set Aside a Designated Quiet Area
For people with disabilities, such as autism, too much stimulation can feel overwhelming.
During your holiday gatherings consider setting aside a room for them to go and relax.
It can be a bedroom, office space, or unused living room.
You can put on soft music or provide toys for them to play with.
Having the space available allows everyone to enjoy the party with fewer outbursts.
Have an Inclusive Party Menu
Food is commonly served at family gatherings.
Although, those with special needs may have a different diet from other children.
For example, they may be on a gluten or sugar-free diet.
Therefore, it’s important to check with their parents ahead of time.
Ask them for suggestions on what type of foods the child typically eats.
The parent may also want to bring their own food.
Reduce Sensory Overload
At the holiday parties, it may be fun to create an engaging atmosphere.
It may include blinking lights, strong smells, or low-hanging decorations.
However, for those with disabilities, this can feel like too much.
If a kid is overwhelmed they may show signs of rocking, covering their eyes, or tense muscles.
So, minimize flashy decorations and strong-scented candles.
Also, provide the child with sunglasses or earplugs to help block out the stimulation.
Create an Accessible Space
When choosing an event location, consider the accessibility for those with disabilities.
For example, is there a wheel-chair accessible ramp?
You also want to consider how the furniture is arranged.
Is it easy for someone who is visually impaired to move around?
Also, ensure the bathroom doors are wide enough to fit a wheelchair and grab bars are installed.
Suppose the party is at home.
Have the family member with disabilities come over and help you make decorating choices.
Then at the event, they can feel less self-conscious when navigating the space.
Anticipate Guests Needs
There is so much to think about during the holiday season.
However, it’s important you start planning your parties early.
Have toys and soothing activities available for those with disabilities.
For example, let them showcase their creative side with play dough.
Also, ask children’s parents what types of things help the kid feel relaxed.
Having these items available can make the event less stressful for everyone.
Have Open Communication
If you have a child with special needs, call your family ahead of time.
Explain the kid’s typical behaviors and any triggers.
It can help the host be more prepared.
It’s also a good idea to discuss strategies for diffusing a tantrum.
Suppose you know of a family member with a child of special needs.
Then make sure to reach out to them before the party.
Communicating ahead of time can help the event go smoother.
Plus, the holidays are all about spreading cheer, so it’s important everyone is having a good time.
Use Special Wrapping Paper
Opening gifts is exciting, especially for younger children.
Although, some children may have weaker motor skills.
Consider using the ripcord technique when wrapping.
It’s where you leave a piece of ribbon sticking out to the end for the person to easily tear open the gift.
If you have a family member who is visually impaired use Mylar wrapping paper.
It has reflective qualities that will stand out easier.
Consider Your Music Selection
Music can help liven up a holiday party.
However, it can also be a trigger for those with special needs.
Consider making certain accommodations.
For those who need more visual support, pair music videos with the lyrics.
Suppose you have family members with hearing impairments.
It’s a good idea to learn some holiday songs in sign language.
For example, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” is a popular one.
Also, keep the music at a moderate level and provide headphones.
Give Thoughtful Gifts
Deciding what to get a child for Christmas can be tricky.
When shopping for children with disabilities it can be even more challenging.
However, there are many accessible presents available today.
For example, a classroom fidget kit is an excellent gift idea for someone with autism.
It helps kids control their impulses and feel more relaxed.
When choosing a gift you want to consider if it fits with that child’s specific limitations.
You also want to make sure they can activate it themselves.
For example, switch-activated gifts are a good option.
Plan Inclusive Activities
Special needs children feel left out of party games because of their limitations.
Before the party, do some research and plan activities that can include everyone.
Keep in mind there are many websites, such as the M.O.R.G.A.N project, that can give you some ideas.
Artwork is a fun activity that all children can join in on.
It also promotes creativity and self-confidence.
Plus it can help improve a disabled child’s fine motor skills.
If your family likes games, matching games are a good option.
They can enhance a child’s memory and social skills.
It also is a simple game that doesn’t involve too much overstimulation.
How to Include All Children
The holidays are full of family and cheer.
Although, it’s important that everyone feels included in the festivities.
So, follow these tips for making your holiday both special and inclusive using these 10 Ways to Be More Inclusive This Holiday Season.
