Life at St. George’s

Ensuring an Inclusive Festive Period at St. George’s Nursery

by St George's Nursery
December 13, 2024
12:09 pm

The festive season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also present challenges for children with additional needs or those who find changes to routine difficult. At St. George’s Nursery, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child can participate in holiday festivities at a level that feels comfortable and enjoyable for them.

Here are some strategies to use to ensure inclusivity during this special time of year.

Understanding the Challenges

For some children, especially those who are autistic or have sensory sensitivities, Christmas can be overwhelming. Changes to routine, bright decorations, increased noise levels, and the pressure to engage in unfamiliar activities can create anxiety. By being mindful of these challenges, we can adapt our approach to meet the needs of all children.

Practical Tips for an Inclusive Festive Period

1. Prepare Your child for Changes

Advance Warnings: Give children plenty of notice about any changes to routines or the nursery environment. Use visuals such as photos, drawings, or objects to explain these changes.
Individual Support: Some children may need one-on-one preparation.
Visual Schedules: Introduce visual timetables to help children anticipate the day’s events.

2. Manage Sensory Overload

Quiet Spaces: Create designated areas where your child can retreat if they feel overstimulated. These spaces should be free of decorations and offer calming activities.
Sensory Tools: Provide ear defenders, fidget toys, or other sensory aids to help your child manage their environment.
Gradual Decorations: Instead of decorating all at once, introduce decorations gradually to avoid overwhelming children.

3. Adapt Activities

Flexible Participation: Allow your child to join festive activities at their own comfort level. For example, they can wave to Father Christmas from a distance if they find close interaction intimidating.
Shorter Events: Be realistic about how long your child can sit through events such as performances or storytelling.
Familiar Options: Ensure that familiar toys and activities remain available every day, even if you are away from home this Christmas.

Our Communication with Families

Collaborative Planning: We work with families to understand each child’s unique needs and preferences.
Transparent Schedules: We share plans for festive activities so families can prepare their children at home.

Specific Strategies for Autistic Children

Christmas can be particularly challenging for autistic children due to changes in routine and sensory input. Here are additional tips to support them:

Discuss Plans

Discuss upcoming changes and ask about their preferences for festive activities.
If surprises are planned (like presents), consider how these can be presented in a way that minimizes anxiety.

Plan Decorations Thoughtfully

Use soft or adjustable lighting to reduce sensory discomfort.
Avoid flashing lights and opt for steady, calming options.
Keep some areas decoration-free to provide a sense of normalcy.

Maintain Familiar Routines

Stick to regular schedules as much as possible.
Gradually introduce new elements, such as decorating the tree one day and adding lights another.

Consider Dietary Preferences

Be mindful of food aversions. Offer alternative meals, even if they’re non-traditional, to help your child feel included.

Coordinate with Schools

Communicate with your child’s nursery / school about changes in routines or festive activities to ensure consistency and comfort for the child.

Making the Festive Period Joyful for All

At St. George’s Nursery, we believe that inclusivity enriches the festive season for everyone. By taking these thoughtful steps, we can ensure that each child feels valued, understood, and part of the celebration. Together with families, we can create a festive period that is magical, supportive, and enjoyable for all.