Making Christmas Autism Friendly is Possible. Here is how…
By: Elizabeth Wright
Tags: Christmas, Accessibility, Life, Autism, Disability

If you look at the news today, there will be one thing — in connection with the pandemic — that is causing a lot of consternation. Christmas is likely to be very different this year, due to the Covid 19 pandemic. How different, we don’t quite know yet. It has even caused a bit of a ‘flap’ politically, too.

People who are on the Autistic spectrum have experienced a generally negative change. The National Autistic Society detailed how the pandemic has badly impacted us — such as in level of care, education, access to public spaces and food — and I explored this more here. A ‘new normal’ has been touted, ostensibly, as a way forward — but it is important it is accessible for everyone, not just the majority of people.

Making Christmas Autism friendly is possible.

And here’s how — just note that Autism is a spectrum, and the following may not be for everyone.

Photo by Ira Ostafiichuk on Unsplash

Rules

The rules being followed, across the board, can be very important for some Autistic people. If someone is breaking them, it can be difficult to fixate and not ask why.

The Covid 19 pandemic has brought this into full focus. People on the spectrum are actually exempt from mask wearing — but many of us choose to undergo this discomfort, for the sake of other people. And yet, our aides have been co-opted, very often by people in denial Coronavirus is even real. The Sunflower Lanyard scheme is for people with invisible disabillities — yet those who often do not have one have acquired a lanyard, just to get out of wearing a mask. This is beyond frustrating.

When it comes to Christmas, so-called ‘guidelines’ can be turned into rules. Take a guideline, and slightly change the language — i.e ‘I will not do…’ Having a visual reminder can help. If we are lucky enough to see relatives, badges are available to say ‘I do not like hugs’ — a good reminder to prevent any restrictions potentially being broken.

If you have a young Autistic child, be very clear and concise — and use the occasional reminder about any rules that may be in place.

Surprises

The fear of the unknown can be terrifying. It may be why we have a very specific routine; it’s a way to understand the world around us. For this reason, surprises — such as when it comes to advent calendars or presents — may be a bit difficult for some of us.

If you can, consider adapting an advent calendar so the recipient knows what is inside before opening — such as by using see-through bags to host the gifts. Maybe ask for a list of gifts to give the recipient? Please try not to be offended if we react adversely.

Keeping a loose structure or a more set-in-stone routine would also be a bonus.

Brexit

Sometimes the future can be a scary thing — and unresolved questions may be causing us to feel incredibly anxious, especially when questions we want to know may not be able to be answered.

Brexit. (There, I said it.) Brexit is coming up — and it looks like, right now, there is not going to be a deal with the rest of the European Union. There is a potential for impact on trade, business, food — but we don’t quite know yet. ‘Brexit’ is not too long after Christmas, too.

Some people on the Autistic spectrum may have specific safe foods, or even comfort foods. In case of disruption, it may be wise to stock up on this — as it may cause worry, or distress if a supply runs out. This could prevent worrying over Christmas, instead of having to deal with it on the day.

Adaptations

Luckily, this is the twenty first century — and there is pretty much a gadget or a gizmo for every possible challenge, issue, etc. And that is also the same for Autistic people at Christmas. This also has the potential to take away fear and anxiety, in the run up to 25th December.

If you struggle with noise, consider investing in noise cancelling headphones — or even ear plugs. (Ear plugs are a cheaper alternative — and noise cancelling headphones can come with a hefty price tag.) This can help, particularly if there are sensory issues related to noise. (I feel you — it can be very overwhelming at times.)

Stimming is something that is almost synonymous with Autism. Please, do not suppress yourself. And, as a Christmas gift idea, stim toys could be a potential gift idea — and brands like ChewiGem are good for this. Anyone who tries to stop you because ‘it’s weird’ is just being ableist.

And if you need a ‘time out’, please give yourself permission to do exactly that; constant social interaction can be a bit much at times.

Food

As already mentioned, Autistic individuals may have sensory issues surrounding food. Research is also pointing more towards Autism and eating disorders often both being present within Autistic women — but the former is almost only seemingly picked up later. It’s also very specific to the individual.

If you are cooking for an Autistic person, maybe consider checking with them about their needs. If there is a sensory issue, maybe consider alternatives — or even adding a comfort or safe food into the mix. Try staggering dinner time — such as having different times, breaks between — as well as keeping a specific structure.

Accessabillity matters — and it is beneficial for all.