Helpful Holiday Tips for Including Loved Ones with an I/DD

Holidays are the best time of the year for many families. There are fun events, like holiday parties, school Christmas programs, and exciting activities, such as playing in the snow, wrapping Hanukkah gifts, or decorating the tree. Make the most of your holidays and plan for any challenges that your family member living with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) may encounter. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider these helpful, inclusive holiday tips from RISE Services, Inc. Idaho.

Why Holidays Can Be Challenging for Loved Ones with I/DD

The holiday season can be exciting, unpredictable, ever-changing, and, of course, very merry and bright. While these reasons are why many look forward to this time of year, they are also why holidays can be challenging for individuals with I/DD. Large family gatherings, additional social events, and bright lights and sounds may overwhelm children or adults who appreciate daily routines, quiet spaces, and peaceful evenings at home. It’s essential that these factors, and others unique to your loved one, are considered during the holiday season so everyone in your family can enjoy the holiday traditions and festivities.

How to Prepare Your Loved Ones for the Holidays

The last thing you and your loved one want is additional stress and anxiety during this joyful season. Christmas, Hannukkah, and other similar holidays are about generosity, friendship, family, and love. Enjoy a cheerful and stress-free holiday by accommodating your loved one’s needs for all the holiday festivities. Consider the unique needs of your family member:

• Do they look forward to the dazzling Christmas lights, or can they result in sensory overload?
• Is your loved one more at ease when celebrating the holiday at home, or are they exhausted when hosting extended family members for Hanukkah celebrations?
• Is traveling tiresome for your child with I/DD, or do they enjoy spending Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa’s?

Your holiday plans will look vastly different from those of other families, which is perfectly fine. The most important thing is for you and your family to enjoy the holiday in ways that work best for your family dynamics.

Tips for Inclusive Holiday Gatherings

Consider these helpful holiday tips for including children and adults with I/DD in your holiday celebrations:

• Include traditions your child enjoys, such as frosting cookies or watching holiday movies.
• Refrain from scheduling activities late so your loved one can get the sleep they need.
• Avoid holiday shopping during the busiest times with your adult family member with I/DD.
• Say “no” to activities that place your family in stressful or overwhelming situations.
• Ask for extra help if you’re hosting an event at your home so you can be available if your family member needs help.
• When attending family gatherings outside your home, ask about a quiet room where your loved one can rest and relax.

Happy Holidays from RISE Idaho

There is no right or wrong way to celebrate the holidays. Do what works best for your loved one with I/DD, other family members, and yourself. RISE Idaho wishes you the best of holidays for 2023. Contact RISE Idaho today to learn more about our services, such as self-direction services, speech therapy, and independent living skills programs.

Source: Frishman, Sheryl. “15 Stress-Reducing Holiday Tips for Families with Special Needs.” Blog article. Friendship Circle. 29 Oct. 2017. Web. 08 Dec. 2023.