In this blog from Solstice Behavioral Health in CT, we explain how the holiday season can be an excellent opportunity for teaching children generosity and how to share. While getting gifts can be something to look forward to during the busy holiday season, it can also be the perfect time for gift-giving as well.
Teaching Children Generosity: “It Is Better To Give Than Receive”
Winter is the season for gift-giving. Storefronts and commercials may urge us to buy more, but this can be a great time to teach your child there’s more value in love and community during the holidays than there is in just accumulating more stuff. While there’s nothing wrong with making your child feel special with gifts during the holidays, it is also valuable to teach your child about generosity to others.
What Are Ways Your Child Can Give Back This Holiday Season?
The experience of in-person holiday shopping can potentially be too much for children with sensory issues. In fact, the holiday season can be full of demanding social events and environments that are overwhelming to the senses. But, there are autism-friendly ways your child can enjoy the festive feeling in the air and give to others in a way that respects their comfort zone.
- Your child can draw a picture to give to friends, family, or teachers.
- You and your child can write a note or holiday card together for loved ones.
- If your child has clothing or toys that they have outgrown, ask their permission to donate them. If you and other family members have items you are ready to donate, involve your child in the process of collecting and getting things ready to give away.
What Are Autism-Friendly Ways To Enjoy Quality Time During The Holidays?
Another way to change the focus on receiving gifts during the holidays is to put more emphasis on quality time with loved ones.
- Family members can read holiday storybooks with your child.
- Friends and family can enjoy classic holiday movies together.
- Bake holiday-themed cookies together. Your child can help with mixing and decorating, and you can ask them to pick colors and flavors.
- Teach your child about beloved holiday traditions, and either start them together or continue them. Involving and teaching your child about cultural cooking traditions in your family is a great idea.
- Decorate the house with your child. Involving your child in this process can be especially beneficial if they have a hard time adjusting to change.
When it comes to mental health concerns in children with autism, early intervention is crucial. The earlier a child with ASD is diagnosed and receives proper treatment and support, the sooner a child has the tools to identify and communicate and cope with their emotions. With more than 20 years of providing support and training for families, Solstice Behavioral Health and Consulting in Shelton, Connecticut strives to become a bedrock for autism awareness and education. Solstice has created multiple programs and activities to help children and communities enhance their skills and develop their support networks. Contact our office at 203-900-4720 to see how we can help you and your family move forward together.
