IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS! (FEEL SMELL AND SOUND LIKE CHRISTMAS TOO!) By Teri Allen, OTR The holidays are an exciting time for children; a time of change and novel sensory experiences. Home and other familiar places look different as furniture is rearranged and decorations added. A trip to the mall or even a drive down the road is a kaleidoscope of glimmering lights and colors. Stores are scented with cinnamon or pine. Even home smells different as the tree is put up, candles lit and Mom starts her holiday baking. There are new tastes, when the neighbor drops off a sample of her favorite cookies and Aunt Sue tries a new recipe. Sounds will be different. There will be ringing of the Salvation Army bell at store entrances, and lots of holiday music. When the entire family gets together to celebrate, look out! The volume of noise will definitely increase! There are more visits with family and friends. Daily routines are different as preschool and schools take a vacation and parent's work schedules change to accommodate the holidays. There is anticipation of parties, gifts, and dreams of a bearded guy in a red suit!! As a parent you will experience the same changes in sensory experiences and routine. In addition, you have increased demands on your time, as you try to get the shopping, cooking, wrapping and decorating under control. The last thing you need is a child who is uncooperative or in the midst of a tantrum. A little planning can soften the excitement and sensory overload of the season helping to keep your little elves in cooperative spirits. Following are some suggestions to get you started. 1. Schedule quiet time after overstimulating sensory experiences such as going to the mall, or a noisy party. 2. Keep your child informed about the events of the day or week (depending on her age and needs) If your child is younger or more of a visual learner, put up a schedule of the day using pictures. 3. If your child loses control during or after shopping trips, take shorter trips or arrange to have child care. Don't forget you can shop through catalogs or the Internet while your little ones sleep! (and you are lounging in your pajamas, sippin' hot chocolate!) 4. Listen to what your little elf is telling you about the sensory experiences he is having. He may use words or actions to tell you when he has had enough. If you don't "listen" you may have to deal with the behavioral consequences. 5. Pay special attention to your child's diet as good nutrition enhances behavioral control and cooperation. Be alert to the fact that sweets will be more readily available and demands on your time may mean more trips to fast food restaurants. 6. Monitor and manage your stress & fatigue level. It's difficult to be patient and understanding with young children when you are exhausted and stressed. 7. If your child does lose control or "melt down", try a little first aid. That might mean moving to a quiet room or corner, hugging, sipping a cold drink through a straw, or munching on something crunchy! Remember- An ounce of planning and preparation is worth a pound of cooperation and contentment! |
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