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What are the most important tips for families with neurodiverse individuals during the holidays?

  • Writer: Styliani Stathoulopoulou
    Styliani Stathoulopoulou
  • Aug 12
  • 1 min read

Written by Dr. Stella Stathoulopoulou, specialized neurodevelopmental psychiatrist, Founder and Director of the Specialized Neurodevelopmental Clinic for Adults (ENIEA).


Article Date: 10/8/25


The most important tips for families with neurodiverse individuals during the holidays include:


  1. Planning: Start planning early so that the person with a disability has time to prepare and become familiar with the activities and destination.


  2. Appropriate Location: Choose destinations and activities that match the person with a disability’s interests so that they feel included and comfortable.


  3. Establish a Routine: Maintain a daily routine, even if it is slightly different from usual, to provide stability and predictability.


  4. Breaks: Schedule frequent breaks during the activities to allow the person to rest and recharge.


  5. Needs Recognition: Be aware of the person with a disability’s specific needs and allow someone to act as a mediator so they can recognize when they need to step back.


  6. Communicating with Relatives: Inform other relatives of the person with a disability’s needs so they can be understanding and supportive during the holiday.


  7. Adjusting Activities: Choose activities that are less demanding and avoid overly intense or long activities that can cause overload.


  8. Self-determination: Allow the person with a disability to determine what is enjoyable for them, rather than assuming what will be enjoyable.


    These tips can help the family enjoy the holiday with less stress and more enjoyment.

    These resources can offer helpful information and strategies to improve the vacation experience for families with neurodiverse individuals:


3. Upbility (2023). "Beach vacations for children with autism."

 
 
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