Preparation isn’t just about planning meals or gifts — it’s about helping children feel safe, confident, and supported before the excitement begins.
Here are five ways to start building calm early so the season feels joyful, not chaotic.
🌿 1️⃣ Preview Routines Before They Change
Kids thrive on predictability.
Start by gently introducing what will look different during the holidays — new routines, visitors, or travel.
You can use a visual schedule or social story to show upcoming events.
Example:
“Today we decorate the tree. Tomorrow we bake cookies. Friday we visit Grandma.”
This builds comfort and confidence — kids know what’s coming and when.
✨ Try using visuals from the Holiday Calm System Starter Kit to make these transitions smoother.
🎄 2️⃣ Keep a “Calm Corner” Ready
A calm corner is a safe, cozy place where kids can take breaks without punishment.
Include sensory tools like:
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Soft textures (blanket or plush)
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Fidget items or stress balls
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Headphones for noise reduction
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Calm posters or breathing visuals
💡 Encourage calm breaks before overwhelm happens. The Holiday Chaos to Calm System includes ready-made calm corner visuals for both home and classroom use.
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🧠 3️⃣ Practice Emotional Check-Ins
Before the holidays get busy, teach kids how to name and express feelings.
You can start with a simple feelings chart and prompts like:
“I feel happy.”
“I feel nervous.”
“I need a break.”
Regular emotional check-ins build awareness and self-regulation — essential tools for navigating big holiday feelings.
✨ You can download a free printable version in the Holiday Calm System Starter Kit!
🍪 4️⃣ Choose Calm Holiday Activities
Not every tradition needs to be loud or crowded.
Add sensory-friendly, low-stimulation activities like:
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Decorating cookies quietly
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Reading a Christmas story
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Going for a winter walk
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Drawing a gratitude picture
Kids can enjoy meaningful traditions without sensory overload.
SEO Keywords: low-stim holiday ideas, sensory-friendly Christmas, calm Christmas activities
🌙 5️⃣ End Each Day with Calm Connection
Bedtime routines help kids release energy and feel secure — especially during exciting seasons.
Try adding:
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Soft lights or candles
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Calm music or story time
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Gratitude reflection (“What was your favorite calm moment today?”)
Even five minutes of consistent calm connection builds emotional safety and family peace.
🎁 Bonus: Start Small with the Holiday Calm System
If you’re ready to make this holiday your calmest yet, start with the Holiday Calm System Starter Kit — a free printable toolkit with visual routines, calm plans, and low-stimulation choice boards.
It’s the perfect first step toward calm, confident holidays for ADHD and sensory-sensitive kids.
👉 Download Your Free Holiday Calm System Starter Kit