1. Lower the bar (on purpose)

• This is not the time to work on big goals.
• Regulation matters more than routines.
• A calm child (and parent) is a win.
• Everyone needs a break from the year, you and children

2. Keep a light rhythm

• Predictability helps, but rigidity can add pressure.
• Choose 2–3 anchor points each day:
• Morning: slow start
• Midday: food + downtime
• Evening: familiar wind-down

3. Protect nervous systems (yours included)

• Busy environments, noise, change and social demands add up.
• Build in:
• Breaks
• Quiet time
• Early exits
• Leaving early (or not going at all!) is a strategy, not a failure.

4. Reduce social demands

• Be discerning about catch-ups: choose the ones that recharge, not drain your battery.
• Shorter visits, fewer people, or leaving early are valid supports.
• There is no “right” way to connect.
• Talking less, needing breaks, or communicating differently is not a problem.
• Connection looks different for different nervous systems.
• Opt out without guilt — capacity is reason enough.

5. Say expectations out loud

• Clear language helps everyone feel safe:
• “We’re staying for one hour.”
• “You don’t have to hug anyone.”
• “You can take a break whenever you need.”
• Predictability and choice reduces shutdowns.

6. Keep familiar comforts close

• Favourite foods
• Familiar shows or games
• Comfort items or sensory tools
  These help regulate and reset, especially during change.

7. Choose regulation over tradition

• You don’t need to do things “because we always do" or because others do
• It’s okay to:
• Skip events
• Change plans
• Do things differently this year

8. Support autonomy and choice

• Offer choices where you can:
• “Do you want to come now or in 10 minutes?”
• “Do you want to join in or watch?”
• Choice supports safety and cooperation.

9. You don’t need to fix anything this festive season

• Skills can wait.
• Therapy goals can wait.
• Growth happens when nervous systems feel safe.

10. One small kindness per day (for you)

• A quiet coffee
• A walk alone
• Saying no without explaining
• Letting something go

Merry Christmas from our team to yours — may it be a season of rest, making connections, and being exactly as you are. 🎄