Autism and the Holidays

The holidays can be a hectic, stressful time for all families. This time of year can be especially overwhelming for families of individuals with autism. We have put together some tips and resources to help you ease your stress during the holidays, and enjoy this wonderful time of year!

Happy Holidays from the Family Services team at Autism Speaks!

“While many happily anticipate the coming holiday season, families of people on the autism spectrum also understand the special challenges that may occur when schedules are disrupted and routines broken. “ – Autism Society

Click here to read Autism Services Foundation's Twelve Tips for Helping People with Autism and Their Families Have a Happy Holiday.

Click here for Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST) list of Tips for Reducing Holiday Stress for Families of Children with Autism.

Looking for a Great Toy Gift?

As a company that loves all kids, Toys"R"Us, Inc. has a long history of supporting the special needs community. For nearly 20 years, they have published the annual Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids, an easy-to-use resource featuring specially selected toys that encourage play for children with physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.
toysRus.com/differentlyabled

Click here for a list of Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST) list of Top Toys for Young Children with Autism.

Tips for Traveling

Holidays are the busiest time of year to travel by plane. Preparing a child, teenager or adult with autism spectrum disorder for plane travel, and new security techniques used at airport security checkpoints, can make a huge difference in making plane travel a more enjoyable experience for all involved.

Click here to read Travel Tips for individuals with autism.

Tips for Family Photos

Get the best family photos during this holiday season! Jess Block, well-respected photographer and photojournalist, and mother of a son with autism, has provided us with ten tips to help you capture the best memories of your family during the holidays.

Tell Us About Your Experience!

We would like to hear from you! Describe your favorite holiday moments and experiences. E-mail us at familyservices@autismspeaks.org.