New Year 2024: Holiday Tips for Autism Support & Awareness

The start of a new year is often associated with feelings of joy and optimism. It is also a time for parents of children with autism to reflect on their child's progress and set goals for the future. Here are some important factors to keep in mind for New Year 2024 when it comes to Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy and holiday time:

• Take the time to review and celebrate the progress your child has made in the past year. Discuss any areas that need further development with your licensed Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) to ensure continued growth.

• It is crucial to maintain your child's involvement in therapy during the holiday season. A consistent therapy schedule helps create a stable and supportive environment for them.

• The holidays often disrupt regular routines, which can be challenging for children receiving ABA therapy. To minimize any negative effects on behavior, make a plan to maintain consistency during this time. Be considerate of sensory sensitivities that may arise during sensory-rich holiday experiences. Additionally, prepare for the transition from school routines to holiday breaks using age-appropriate visual schedules to ensure a smooth adjustment.

• Holiday gatherings provide valuable opportunities to practice and reinforce the skills learned during ABA therapy sessions. Encourage your child to generalize these skills in a social setting.

The New Year symbolizes growth and development, and that applies to children with autism as well. Take this time to reflect, plan, and prioritize the well-being of both the child receiving therapy and their caregivers.