The holidays are filled with excitement, family traditions, bright lights, and new experiences. But for many children with autism, the season can also feel overwhelming due to changes in routine, louder environments, and sensory overload.

At ABLE, we believe every family deserves holiday traditions that feel joyful, accessible, and supportive of each child’s unique needs. Using principles from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), parents can create modified traditions that bring comfort and connection while still keeping the season magical.

If you’re looking for autism friendly holiday ideas, or resources for families seeking ABA therapy in Tampa, Brandon, Clearwater, and Plant City, this guide is for you.

Why Traditional Holidays Can Be Challenging for Kids With Autism

Many classic holiday traditions include elements that may feel stressful for children on the spectrum:

• Bright or flashing lights
• New scents, decorations, and sounds
• Crowded gatherings and unfamiliar places
• Changes in routine or schedule
• Pressure to participate in traditions they do not yet understand

By using ABA based strategies, families can break down traditions into manageable steps, build predictability, and create a positive learning experience.

How to Make Holiday Traditions Autism Friendly

1. Use Visual Schedules for Holiday Activities

One of the most helpful ABA strategies during the holidays is the use of visual schedules.
Whether it’s decorating the tree, opening gifts, or visiting relatives, a visual breakdown of events reduces anxiety and gives kids a sense of control.
Try adding photos, icons, or drawings to make it fun and predictable.

2. Practice New Traditions Ahead of Time

ABA emphasizes task analysis, which means breaking big experiences into smaller, teachable steps.
You can practice:

• Opening one gift at a time
• Sitting at the holiday table for one minute and gradually increasing time
• Taking turns during family activities
• Greeting guests with a wave or smile

Rehearsing helps children feel successful before the actual event.

3. Create Sensory Friendly Versions of Traditions

Not every child enjoys bright lights or loud music. That’s okay.
Try:

• Using warm lights instead of flashing ones
• Keeping decorations simple and not overwhelming
• Limiting strong scents from candles or cooking
• Offering noise canceling headphones
• Having a quiet “holiday break space” ready

Making small adjustments helps children participate without becoming overstimulated.

4. Give Choices to Increase Comfort and Independence

Choices are powerful in ABA as they increase cooperation and reduce challenging behaviors.
Try offering options like:

• Which ornament to hang
• Which holiday movie to watch
• Which cookie to decorate
• Which pajamas to wear for Christmas morning

Allowing kids to choose their level of participation builds confidence and autonomy.

5. Use Positive Reinforcement During Holiday Events

Praising small victories makes a big difference.
Reinforce behaviors such as:

• Sharing toys
• Waiting their turn
• Trying a new food
• Tolerating a new experience

Positive reinforcement can be verbal praise, a favorite snack, or a fun holiday activity.

6. Create Temporary Holiday Routines

Kids with autism thrive on structure.
Try maintaining parts of your normal routine including:

• Sleep schedule
• Meal times
• Quiet time or sensory breaks

If the schedule will change for parties or travel, create a temporary holiday routine 1 to 2 weeks before to help them adjust.

7. Use Social Stories to Prepare for New Experiences

Social stories are an amazing ABA based tool for explaining upcoming events.
You can create one for:

• Visiting Santa
• Going to a holiday parade
• Opening gifts
• Meeting new relatives
• Saying “thank you”

These stories help children understand expectations, reduce anxiety, and increase participation.

You Can Keep the Magic, Just Make It Yours

Holiday traditions don’t have to be loud, crowded, or overstimulating to be meaningful.
By personalizing activities and using ABA strategies, families can create traditions that feel joyful, safe, and accessible for their children. Remember that the most important part of the season is connection, not perfection.

Looking for ABA Therapy in Tampa, Brandon, Clearwater, or Plant City?

At ABLE, we believe every child deserves to experience growth, joy, and belonging during the holidays and all year long.
We offer high quality ABA therapy across multiple settings including home, clinic, community, and school.

✨ No wait list in Plant City, Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater
✨ New clinic now open in Plant City
✨ Most insurance accepted
✨ Spanish speaking team available

Start your journey today, fill out the intake form in our Getting Started section, give us a call to (863) 609 2809 or email us at intake@applied-behavioral.com

Creating joyful, meaningful, and sensory friendly celebrations for every child.