Busting Winter Gloomies
Many of us are prone to slugishness and low energy in the winter months because of the short days and cold weather. Parents of two sons diagnosed with autism said, “Last week I noticed both boys were less responsive than usual, and this week I notice that the whole family seems drained of energy and purpose – including me!” Kids and adults can bust the gloomies by staying active and purposefully planning fun, enriching activities every single day.
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+ Enjoy some hot chocolate with miniature marshmallows. For a different taste, stir in a bit of cinnamon. Warm chai tea or warm apple cider are possible substitutes for people who are lactose intolerant. Show kids how to warm their hands on the side of the cup.
+ If you are fortunate enough to have snow, bundle up everybody up and make a snowman together. Make a family of snow angels. And throw snowballs at a tree.
+ Make snow ice cream with some fresh snow, some powdered sugar, and a drop of peppermint flavoring.
+ If you don’t have snow, cut some snowflakes out of white or blue paper. Sprinkle the flakes with silver glitter and hang from all the doorways inside your home so you can walk in a winter wonderland without getting your toes cold!
+ No matter the weather, get outside frequently. Remember that walking around outside and exposure to natural light – even in cloudy weather – boosts moods better than staying inside all the time.
+ Take a drive in the country and sing winter songs: “Walking in a Winter Wonderland,” “Let It Snow,” “Over the River and Through the Woods,” “Frosty the Snowman.” P.S. The quality of the singing is irrelevant – rowdy singing is preferred.
+ One thing that is guaranteed to bust the winter gloomies is to reach out a helping hand to other people. As a family, gather up outgrown coats, sweaters, socks, mittens, and other warm clothing and take them to an agency that provides services to needy children. Or volunteer to help in a soup kitchen on a cold winter evening.
Feel free to share ideas you have for winter activities. Just click on “comment” or send an e-mail to talk@FAQautism.com
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. Send email to talk@FAQautism.com And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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