The holidays are a special time filled with family gatherings, school breaks, travel, and lots of excitement. But for many families, especially those supporting a child with autism, this season can also bring new challenges like changes in routine, crowded environments, and extra sensory input.

At Intercare, we know the holidays can be both joyful and overwhelming. The good news is that Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can be a wonderful resource to help your family manage the busyness of the season with confidence and connection.

1. Keeping Routines Consistent (Even When Life Isn’t)

Routines provide comfort and predictability, especially for children on the spectrum. During the holidays, when school schedules and daily rhythms often change, keeping some consistency can help your child feel secure and calm.

ABA therapy helps families build flexible routines and practical strategies that can adjust as plans shift. Your care team can help you:

• Identify which routines are most important to keep.

• Create visual schedules for travel days or holiday events.

• Practice coping skills for transitions and surprises.

Even small steps, like maintaining regular meal and bedtime times, can go a long way toward reducing stress for everyone.

2. Preparing for Social Gatherings and Family Events

Holiday parties and family get-togethers can be fun but also overstimulating. ABA therapy supports children in developing social and communication skills that help them participate more comfortably and confidently.

Your BCBA or clinical team can work with you to:

• Role-play greetings and conversations before events.

• Use positive reinforcement to encourage social engagement.

• Identify quiet spaces or breaks to help your child reset if needed.

These simple, proactive steps can make social events more enjoyable and meaningful for your child and your whole family.

3. Managing Sensory Overload

The lights, sounds, and energy of the season are exciting for some and overwhelming for others. ABA therapy can help you recognize sensory triggers and create coping plans that work for your child.

A few ideas to try:

• Bring along favorite comfort items, like noise-canceling headphones or a small toy.

• Introduce new holiday sounds or decorations gradually at home.

• Talk through what to expect before entering new or busy environments.

Your Intercare team can help design sensory supports that make outings and celebrations more manageable and enjoyable.

4. Keeping Learning Going Over the Break

School breaks can disrupt a child’s learning rhythm, but that doesn’t mean progress has to pause. Continuing ABA therapy through the holidays offers consistency and helps keep skills fresh.

This time of year can also bring new opportunities to practice everyday learning moments, such as:

• Sharing and taking turns with siblings.

• Following directions in new environments.

• Waiting patiently during exciting activities like opening gifts.

These small, real-world moments can build confidence and keep your child’s growth moving forward.

5. Creating Joyful, Low-Stress Memories

ABA isn’t only about structure or skill-building—it’s about helping families live fully and joyfully. The holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate progress, big or small, and to focus on connection over perfection.

Every family’s version of “holiday success” looks different. Whether that means participating in one favorite activity or trying something new together, what matters most is finding moments of joy and togetherness.

Considering Starting ABA Services?

If your family is new to ABA or you’ve been thinking about starting services, the holidays are a great time to learn more about how Intercare can help. Our team offers compassionate, flexible care that supports your child and family in real-life settings—at home, in the community, or at one of our centers.

Start the new year with support, confidence, and a plan for growth.
Contact us today to learn more about ABA therapy and how we can help your family thrive.