For many, the upcoming holidays conjure up visions of being with friends and family, enjoying festive holiday music and bright lights, taking a break from work and school, and relishing being home together. For many families with autistic children, however, the reality can be starkly different.

I asked Drs. Megan Hancock and Karen Wilson, clinical psychologists at the Toronto-based ?mental health gym? MindFit Health (which serves clients virtually), for their top holiday tips for parents and caregivers. I also asked Stephanie Friedman, parent of a 12-year-old autistic son and host of the highly regarded Autism Journey podcast, for her key insights.
What are the main issues around the holidays for families with autistic children"
Autistic children thrive on routine, structure and consistency. With the December school break, established routines no longer exist. The excitement around the holidays, social expectations, and sensory overload can be overwhelming, leading to emotional dysregulation and meltdowns. Dr. Hancock says, ?There is an important mismatch between the environment and the child and their way of doing things.?
Compounding this are our expectations and wishes as parents and caregivers. Many of us fondly remember how we celebrated the holidays growing up and want to replicate these traditions. However, these experiences can be uncomfortable for the child, exacerbating stress for the entire family.

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The Experts? Top Holiday Tips
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Dr. Wilson ...