A quieter Christmas morning for a sensory-sensitive child
Christmas morning can be quieter: fewer gifts out at once, a familiar breakfast and somewhere to take a break.
Before relatives arrive, ask the child what they want to know in advance. Some like to see the order of events on paper; others would rather know which presents are theirs. A short plan can include breakfast, a stocking and time alone before lunch.
Make pauses ordinary
Choose a room where the television and conversation will not follow them. Tell grandparents that the child may unwrap one gift and come back later. If they put a present aside, give them time; it doesn’t mean they’re ungrateful. If Christmas dinner has unfamiliar food, keep a familiar option without making it a public discussion.
- Switch off noisy toys until the child chooses to try them.
- Keep tags and packaging out of the sitting room as you go.
- Agree on a signal for “I need a break”.
“We can open the stocking now and the other gifts after a rest.” The plan should bend to the child; it is not a timetable for getting through all the presents.