Tips for a fun Christmas party with an SEN child

For many families, Christmas is a time of parties, visiting friends and family. When planning a family Christmas that includes a child with special educational needs (SEN), taking into account the needs of the child can be the difference between a great party  and tears all around. 

For a child with SEN, understanding what to expect at a party can make all the difference. 

Consider creating a visual schedule or a simple storybook that walks them through the events of the day. This can help them anticipate the fun activities and reduce any potential anxiety.

Involve your child in the prep as much as possible. Whether it's hanging ornaments, decorating cookies, or choosing their favourite holiday music, you want your child to feel like their needs and wants are thought of. Allowing your child to have even small choices of decorations, food, and music can help you keep everyone happy and well regulated. 

It's also great way to build excitement while also allowing them to feel part of the Christmas magic.

Even with the best preparations, Christmas gatherings can sometimes become overwhelming. This is where having designated safe spaces can be incredibly helpful. 

Choose a quiet, cosy corner in your home and transform it into a retreat; a sanctuary filled with familiar comforts like their favourite books, toys, or sensory items. You can use a tent, to offer a space where they are on their own, even a blanket over two chairs can do the trick in a pinch. 

Encourage your child to retreat to this space whenever they need a break from the bustling festivities.

 It’s important to let them know that it's perfectly okay to step away and recharge. This approach not only respects their needs, but enables them to be in control of their feelings and needs.

It’s also important to talk to other adults and explain the child needs time to recharge and regulate their system, and that they are not being rude. Rather it’s a technique that you want to encourage your child to do when they feel like they need a break. 

Encourage family and friends to engage in activities that everyone can enjoy. 

Carefully choosing games, crafts, baking, or musical activities that suit the interests and needs of those involved is imperative. 

Perhaps there are some activities your child enjoys and can be done in a group. While other activities your child dislikes or cannot handle, it’s okay to not participate in every single thing. 

If there is a tradition that most people want to do and your SEN child doesn’t, let them skip it. So everyone has a chance to get their preferences and needs met. 

Before the party, share anecdotes about your child's unique qualities and interests with family members. This helps build understanding and fosters a supportive environment. 

It’s heartwarming to see loved ones work together, each contributing to a shared goal of making the day special for everyone involved, especially if you have family visiting who don’t normally spend a lot of time with your child.

Cherish the small moments, giggles during a silly game, the smile when your child places the star atop the tree, or the quiet as they relax in their safe space. 

Creating a happy family Christmas with a child with SEN is all about blending preparation with flexibility, structure with spontaneity, and most importantly, love with patience. Of course, this does depend on each individual, some can manage spontaneity or crowds more than others. 

You create a Christmas time that is not only inclusive but also full of warmth and joy for everyone. 

Here's to a happy Christmas.