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Posted by Lynn Moore Nov 28, 2007 |
Are you feeling the holiday frenzy yet? Do you see more writing that blank space when you look at the calendar? Kids with special needs certainly feel the holiday excitement and stress. Decorations are fun, yet distracting. Activities are different; sleep and meals are different; everything is different. Most children with special needs enjoy variety, and yet they are counting on familiar, routine experiences to make sense of the world.
Although this is a fun time of year, schedules are critical in making it less overwhelming and less stressful. Many articles have been written on the importance of schedules for kids with disabilities. Everyone agrees that daily tasks such as homework, chores, meals, and bedtime are just easier and more productive if there is a regular schedule. This is especially true for children who are developmentally delayed, autistic, ADHD, and those who have significant communication challenges.
Sometimes though, especially at the holidays, children with special needs become upset they are expected to complete routine tasks. They tend to get caught up in the excitement or busyness of the time. Their expectation is to only do the special events and activities. Routine chores and things like school work get less than their best effort. Sometimes routine responsibilities evoke anger in kids with special needs. Other kids get caught up in impulsive behaviors.
How do you maintain the best possible routine during times like the holidays? Let’s start a discussion on encouraging the best from kids with special needs during the holidays.