I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. We had an uneventful holiday. It was really great! I used to be the type of person that loved “action” and surprise. Today, as a mother, I truly cherish those run of the mill, humdrum events. You know…peaceful occasions where everything just falls into place. For us, those times are few and far between. I’m going to bet that many of you can relate.
    
Holidays or breaks in daily routines can be tough for children who have disabilities…and even tougher on their parents. Here are some things that helped made our life better during the holidays. I hope these tips help.

Tips for the New Year (and all the changes it may bring)

1. Prepare your child for the new schedule.
Talk to your child in advance or show him/her pictures that will explain the new schedule. I have used a visual schedule on many occasions for special occasions.  

2. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
We have children with disabilities…things don’t often go as planned. That IS normal for us. Be prepared for the things you know might happen. For example, we always make sure our daughter has a quiet place to go at parties or where there are going to be lots of people gathered. When we walk in the door, she and I walk through the house and find a good quiet place for her to go as needed. If my husband or I need to leave the party early or be in the quiet place with her, that’s fine. It we get to stay and all have fun…it’s a blessing!

3. Prepare your relatives and friends too.
When with friends and relatives for special occasions, tell them about your child’s condition and what will be needed to support him/her during the event. Trust me, they will be thrilled that you are so open about your child’s needs. In addition, they will be learning how to support and care for your child.  

4. Don’t rush things or over schedule yourself.
We live in a “drive through” type of world these days. We are constantly being asked to go from one event to another. We just go, go, go!  Somehow, this became the norm for society. Remember that this type of behavior is NOT  normal; nor should our young children be expected to tolerate it.

5. Take a rest often.
From #4…take a break every day. Spend time with your children, relax! 

6. Hakuna Matata: No worries. 
I know that’s hard to do; but give it a try sometime. You need to choose your ‘battles of the mind’. Get upset only about the things that truly matter. Everything else…hakuna matata!