Surviving the Party Season

So, we've made it through Thanksgiving and Halloween! Hopefully you're on the other side with enough sanity to make it through December. The party season has only just begun, so we have some tips for making this season one of success for families whose kids have social anxiety and sensory sensitivities.

(1) Prep! 
Let your child know in advance which parties they have been invited to join, and what they can expect when they arrive. Who will be there? What kind of food might be there? Which food can/can't your child eat? What is the strategy for situations that need adult intervention?

(2) Break Space
Find a physical space for your child to take a break when he needs it. If you're attending a house party, ask the host if you can use a bedroom for a cool-down zone - or if it's a daytime party - maybe take a walk around the block if things get rough. Have a plan and focus on preventing meltdowns instead of just fixing the damage after they've already happened.

(3) Short 'n Sweet
Don't expect your child to stay regulated for hours at a party. Learn to leave before the meltdown happens - always aim to leave on a positive note. This might mean staying for 45 minutes and making an excuse to go home, and that is totally OK.

(4) Kid Parties vs. Adult Parties
For events that are geared towards adults, consider getting a babysitter - even if kids are welcome at the party. Some parties are worth attending without your children, so that you can relax and let your hair down. For all you know, the choice to leave the kids at home could be very mutually beneficial - they might enjoy pizza and a movie with the babysitter more than a hectic party.

(5) Be Flexible
You might need to loosen your standards on behavior when it comes to a party. Watch the other (possibly typically developing) kids and see how they are behaving - some craziness is allowed at a party! Sensory sensitive kids tend to have a hard time knowing when to calm down after high-energy situations at parties - this is where you step in. Coach your child through calming down by taking a break and providing deep pressure, like a bear hug. Take five minutes to read a quiet book together, then go back to the festivities.