10 Sensory Friendly Christmas Activities for Kids With Autism

The Christmas season brings beautiful lights, music, and excitement, but it can also be overwhelming for children with autism. Sensory overload is very common during the holidays, which is why planning activities that support comfort, learning, and joy is so important. At ABLE, we focus on creating experiences that help children engage in ways that feel safe and meaningful.

Why Sensory Friendly Activities Matter

Children with autism deserve a Christmas that feels safe, joyful, and tailored to their needs. Sensory friendly traditions help reduce overwhelm while supporting:

• Communication skills
• Emotional regulation
• Predictability
• Positive family moments
• Confidence and independence

Our BCBAs and ABA therapists teach families how to create supportive environments all year long, including during the holiday season. And here are 10 sensory friendly Christmas activities that families can enjoy at home while supporting skills through ABA strategies.

1. Christmas Sensory Bins

Fill a bin with fake snow, pom poms, bells, cookie cutters, or mini ornaments. Sensory bins allow children to explore different textures while practicing fine motor skills and independent play.

ABA Tip: Set a visual timer for play and praise gentle hands.

2. Soft Christmas Lights Corner

Some children find bright lights overwhelming. Create a cozy corner with soft string lights, a blanket, and their favorite stuffed animal where they can have a break and feel comfortable.

ABA Tip: Teach calm down strategies by modeling deep breathing in the quiet space.

3. Ornament Painting with Washable Paint

Instead of fragile glass ornaments, use plastic or wood ornaments that can be reused so kids can decorate them safely without having to worry about making mistakes or breaking them.

ABA Tip: Offer two to three color choices to support decision making and reduce overwhelm.

4. Christmas Storytime with Social Stories

Read holiday themed books or create a social story about Christmas morning, visiting family, or opening gifts for kids to have an idea of what expect during the holiday celebrations 

ABA Tip: Review the story daily to build predictability and reduce anxiety.

5. Gingerbread Play Dough

Make scented gingerbread play dough using cinnamon and brown food coloring. This provides a sensory experience without the intensity of real baking smells.

ABA Tip: Practice imitation by modeling how to roll, flatten, or cut shapes.

6. A Calm Christmas Movie Night

Choose gentle, low noise movies like “The Snowman,” “Frosty the Snowman,” or “Elmo’s Christmas Countdown.” the kids always love and that can help them keep their attention. If your child is old enough, you can ask them questions about the movie to improve their conversational skills. 

ABA Tip: Reinforce sitting for increasing time with simple rewards like stickers or popcorn.

7. DIY Christmas Countdown Chain

Use paper strips to create a countdown chain that your child removes each day. This gives structure and helps avoid the anxiety of waiting for Christmas.

ABA Tip: Pair removing each link with a simple direction like “tear,” “pull,” or “give,” to build language.

8. Warm Cocoa and Quiet Music Time

Create a warm drink station with cocoa, tea, or warm milk along with soft Christmas instrumentals to create a nice atmosphere in the house.

ABA Tip: Teach communication skills by encouraging your child to request “more,” “hot,” or “help.”

9. Weighted Blanket Christmas Reading Nook

If your child uses a weighted blanket, create a small holiday reading nook with holiday pillows and soft textures.

ABA Tip: Practice self advocacy by helping your child request breaks when they feel overwhelmed.

10. Outdoor Holiday Scavenger Hunt

List simple items like “red lights,” “wreath,” “snowman decoration,” or “big bow” and walk around the neighborhood looking for them.

ABA Tip: Build attention and language by prompting your child to label what they see.

ABA Therapy Support in Lakeland, Clearwater, Plant City, Brandon, and Tampa

If your family is seeking personalized guidance, ABLE offers high quality ABA therapy in Clearwater, Plant City, Brandon, and Tampa. Our experienced BCBAs and compassionate therapists work in clinic, home, school, and community settings to help children thrive during all seasons.

We currently have availability and would love to support your child’s journey.

Click Here to fill out out intake form and take the first step to make your child thrive. 

For more information you can call us (863) 619 2809 or email us intake@applied-behavioral.com

“The magic of the holidays shines brightest when we build traditions that honor who our children are and who they are becoming.”