As we dive into the festive season, a time filled with joy and merriment, I want to share a recent experience that some of you might relate to. The mention of “Aladdin and panto time” in the school letter triggers a mix of excitement and concern, especially for those of us with loved ones on the spectrum.
An unexpected challenge on an outing
During a recent family outing to a small amusement park, we found ourselves facing a familiar challenge when my son Lucas hesitated before entering a little theatre for a Halloween show. Despite our best efforts, his anxiety kicked in.
The show’s host, understanding Lucas’s apprehension, kindly invited him to take a peek inside the theatre before deciding.
After looking, the host took the time to explain the sequence of events, offering a last-minute preparation that made all the difference. Lucas, with newfound courage, decided to give it a shot.
While the experience didn’t go as smoothly as we hoped, as Lucas decided that he wanted to leave after 5 minutes, we were proud of him for facing his fears. It reminded us that sometimes, we discover what we enjoy and don’t enjoy only by stepping out of our comfort zones.
Strategies to support upcoming events
As we approach the bustling holiday season, filled with family gatherings and festive events, I want to share some strategies I plan to use to prepare :-
1) Start the Conversation: Talk about the upcoming event in advance.
2) Visual Aids: Utilize videos or visual materials to provide a preview of what to expect.
3) Pre-Visit the Venue: Whenever possible, visit the venue beforehand to familiarize your child with the surroundings.
4) Step-by-Step Guidance: Talk them through the sequence of events, helping them understand what will happen.
5) Role Play: If it can help, act out a bit of what will happen when you are at home so they know what to expect.
6) Open Communication: Be open to the possibility of leaving the experience if it becomes overwhelming. Speak with the teachers / family / friends beforehand so they are also prepared.
7) Positive Reinforcement: Reinforce positive behaviour by discussing potential rewards or treats after the event.
Have a think and see what would work best for your family. We’re all different so it’s always good to experiment and try things out.
Wishing you a fun and exciting upcoming holiday season (with a panto or two :-))
If you need more support…
If you are facing challenges with your family on the spectrum, remember, you’re not alone. Feel free to book a complimentary discovery session with me.
You can find other blog posts for Families on the Spectrum here.