Day After Christmas
Twas the day after Christmas and all through the house,
Everyone was grumpy and feeling like a louse.
The presents were worn out, and the food was all gone.
The holiday cheer evaporated with the dawn.
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The post-holiday blues can be a real problem for individuals with autism and their families. What can we do to keep the joy alive during that lull before the new year begins and the regular routine of school or work kicks back into gear?
1. Routine. Even the most independent person with autism struggles with loosely structured days. You can help get folks on track by establishing a “holiday routine” for meals, bathing, bedtime, and other regular daily activities. It even helps to structure free time so an individual isn’t just floating in space, not knowing what is going to happen next. You could have a visual schedule that illustrates activities, e.g. cartoons and walk the dog in the morning, followed by trampoline, books, and baking cookies in the afternoon.
2. Special Events. We all thrive when we have something to look forward to every day. You can help your friend with autism pick out one special activity for each day of the school holiday. There is no need for elaborate events, just some unique activity to enjoy each day that appeals to the interest of your friend. For example, an elementary-aged youngster with autism might enjoy rolling pennies, watching a classic children’s movie, taking a walk around the neighborhood, delivering cookies to a nursing home, having a “campout” with a bedroll on the living room floor, helping gather wood for a fire in the fireplace, or swinging at the park. People of all ages can enjoy feeding the birds by coating a pine cone with peanut butter then bird seed before hanging it on a tree. Hang it near a window so everyone can watch the birds enjoy the feast.
TIP FOR THE DAY. We can help ward off the post-holiday blues by helping establish a predictable daily routine and by planning a special event to add spark to each day.
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 a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. 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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