Cammie Arn

The holiday are upon us. So, the question at hand is: “How do we deal with all the shopping and prepping that goes into this time of year when it can be so overwhelming?” 

Here are some things that worked in our family, when daily life caused sensory overload from the heightened seasonal activity. 

• Shop online and with catalogs, it just keeps things simpler and away from crazy crowds.
• Drive thru neighborhoods known for their decorations. Not only is it better on the pocketbook, but noises can be controlled and lights tend not be be as overbearing from the inside a vehicle. You can also make this adventure a special treat by picking up hot chocolate (or bring your own) and cookies.
• Decorate the tree with simple white lights instead of flashing colored ones.
• Try to keep your routine as much as possible, the normalcy of your days can help prevent many a meltdown.
• Use festive fabric to wrap gifts. By replacing paper with fabric no one gets overstimulated with the constant tearing of paper. Plus, the fabric is reusable. Decorated pillowcases work great!
• Use one gift box per person. Place all of that family member’s gifts in the one box and you save on the chaos of opening lots of little gifts.
• Limit sugar.  Even if you already do this, ’tis the season to work on it all the more. Too much sugar can cause any kiddo to get grumpy and meltdown (adults included).
• Ensure your family gets enough rest
• Pick and choose your activities. You don’t have to do everything…every year. 

And, if things do go awry, take a deep breath. Tomorrow is a new day.

Happy Holidays.