The holidays and school breaks can be filled with excitement, laughter, and cherished traditions, but they can also feel overwhelming. Changes in routine, new activities, crowded gatherings, and extra expectations can make even the celebrations stressful for students with disabilities. It is normal for students to feel anxious, frustrated, or overstimulated during this time. At the same time, these periods offer a unique opportunity for growth, skill-building, and practicing independence. With thoughtful planning and supportive strategies, families can transform holiday and break moments into opportunities for learning, building confidence, and meaningful participation, while keeping stress under control.
Why Breaks Matter for Skill-Building
Even though school routines are on pause, holidays and breaks provide a chance to continue learning in practical ways. Everyday activities, such as helping with meals, planning family gatherings, managing personal tasks, or participating in seasonal traditions, provide students with opportunities to practice problem-solving, communication, time management, and social skills. These experiences help build confidence and show students that their contributions are meaningful.
Acknowledging Holiday Stress
Holidays and breaks can be both exciting and challenging. Changes in routine, new foods, crowded environments, or extended social interaction can create stress. Allowing for breaks, quiet time, or sensory-friendly activities can help students manage anxiety. Planning, discussing expectations, and keeping some structure in the day can make holidays and breaks more enjoyable and less overwhelming.
Creating a Flexible Schedule
Without a school structure to guide the day, a flexible and straightforward schedule can help students stay engaged and provide a sense of routine. The schedule does not need to be strict. It can balance fun, learning, and daily responsibilities. Mornings could include personal care and breakfast, followed by light chores or helping with holiday or seasonal activities. Mid-mornings or afternoons can include creative or educational activities, social interactions with family or friends, and physical activity. Evenings can be spent on leisure activities, reading, or playing games.
Visual schedules, checklists, or timers can be conducive for students who benefit from clear steps and reminders. Predictable routines reduce stress while still allowing flexibility for spontaneous fun.
Promoting Growth Through Everyday Activities
Everyday contributions promote skill development. Cooking or helping prepare a meal can teach planning, following directions, and measuring ingredients. Organizing spaces, assisting with family projects, or helping plan seasonal activities strengthens attention to detail and executive functioning skills. Participating in family games, conversations, or group activities encourages communication, social interaction, and self-expression.
Celebrating effort as much as achievement is essential. Recognizing students for completing tasks, learning new skills, or taking initiative fosters self-esteem and reinforces the value of their contributions.
Practical Tips for Breaks and Holidays
- Maintain a daily routine. Consistent times for meals, personal care, learning, physical activity, and leisure help reduce stress and support independence.
- Incorporate life skills. Tasks such as folding laundry, setting the table, or organizing materials build independence.
- Foster social skills. Participation in conversations, games, or family activities encourages communication and confidence. Making visuals can be a great way to help increase engagement in conversations.
- Encourage physical activity. Movement and outdoor time help manage stress and promote well-being.
- Set manageable goals. Small projects, reading, or creative activities provide engagement without pressure.
- Break tasks into steps. Dividing larger activities into smaller, achievable steps prevents overwhelm.
- Use technology thoughtfully. Timers, reminders, or interactive apps can support focus and organization.
- Provide quiet or sensory breaks. Include downtime for relaxation or calm activities if students feel stressed.
- Encourage reflection. Discuss what went well and what was challenging to help students process experiences.
If you need additional support as the holiday season approaches, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the TN Disability Pathfinder. We want to help you navigate the holidays with the least amount of stress possible.
Making Every Moment Count
School breaks and holidays are more than time off. They are opportunities for learning, connection, and personal growth. By creating flexible routines that allow for quiet or sensory breaks, offering opportunities for meaningful participation, and celebrating progress, families can help students with disabilities continue to develop essential skills, independence, and self-confidence. With thoughtful planning, these periods can be both joyful and manageable, leaving students prepared for future success while enjoying family traditions and seasonal celebrations.