The period between Christmas and the return to school can feel a bit uncertain for families with neurodivergent children and young people. After the excitement and stimulation of Christmas, no matter how low-key, many children may feel overwhelmed. Then there is the expanse of time before January and the return to school and all of the anxieties that can sometimes accompany that.
It’s a great opportunity to minimise commitments and allow them time to regulate and decompress. Lots of children and young people will want to spend time playing with and exploring their new toys or other presents at their own pace. For many neurodivergent children screentime can also be a helpful tool for self-regulation. Don’t feel guilty if they spend more time than usual on screens during this period.
Using calendars and visual aids can also help neurodivergent children orientate themselves with where they are in the holiday period. These tools provide a clear sense of time and structure, reducing anxiety about the unknown. Maintaining some familiar routines, like consistent mealtimes or bedtime rituals, can also provide comfort and predictability. For example, starting each day with their regular breakfast or setting aside some family time every afternoon can help maintain a sense of normality.
As this is your holiday time too we’ve come up with some ideas to help you make the most of this family time together with minimal effort.
Film time: Set up a cosy spot on the sofa with blankets and cushions for your child’s favourite films or TV shows.
Puzzles and Lego: Set out a puzzle or Lego set that they can work on independently at their own pace or ask you to join in with if they fancy some company.
Sensory play: Use items you already have at home, like rice, pasta, play dough or kinetic sand, to create a simple sensory experiences for calming play.
DIY craft kits: Stock up on pre-made kits or colouring books that don’t require extensive supervision or setup.
Story time: Enjoy quiet moments reading their favourite books together or let them explore audiobooks.
Mindfulness or relaxation apps: Take this opportunity to introduce apps like Calm or Headspace for Kids to help with relaxation and self-regulation.
Screentime: Allow time for their favourite games or shows, which can often help with self-regulation and provide a comforting routine.
Cooking or baking together: Spend time in the kitchen making simple recipes like cookies, pizzas, or hot chocolate.
Board games or card games: Choose cooperative or simple games that everyone can enjoy together, fostering teamwork and positive interaction.
Fresh air: Take a short walk in a nearby park or around your town to enjoy fresh air and explore winter sights. Keep it simple by looking for interesting things like birds or frosted leaves. If you are struggling to get out consider setting up a quick treasure hunt outdoors with a few clues or items to find. This can be as easy as hiding small objects around the garden.
Prepare for the return to school: Involve your child in simple tasks like organising their schoolbag and uniform for the new term.
Practice the morning routine: Ease back into the school schedule by gradually adjusting wake-up and bedtimes so it isn’t such a shock to everyone’s system when the new term starts.
We hope these ideas for low-effort and bonding-focused activities help you create a calm and supportive environment for your neurodivergent child during the post-Christmas break whilst preparing them for the return to school in January. Whatever activities you choose, remember to do what’s right for you and your family. The holiday period is a time to enjoy being together as much as you can. Every family is different, so find what works for you.
