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How to Host an Accessible, Autism-friendly Holiday Party updated: November 17, 2022
· Hosting family gatherings can be a stressful but rewarding experience, because you want to make sure all your guests have a great time. Your autistic or neurodivergent guests may have some unique needs or sensitivities that you should consider when planning your event.
· Communicate with your guests openly and clearly about things like menu, times, expectations, and arrangements. Your autistic guests will likely find comfort in knowing what to expect, such as how long gatherings will last, what they need to bring, or what activities you’ll be doing.
· Create at least one quiet/talk free space at your gathering so guests with autism can decompress when they need to. Make it a rule that there’s no judgment or snide remarks if someone needs to take breaks, go outside, have some screen time, or leave early. Don’t take it personally; this is your neurodivergent guest’s way of regulating.
· Make it a flexible, judgment free gathering. Avoid comments about people’s appetite or appearance. Allow arrival and departure times to be flexible, and don’t put pressure on guests to attend every event or participate in every activity. Give guests the freedom to be themselves; they’ll have a better time, and so will you!
· Prepare for your neurodivergent guests’ sensory sensitivities or challenges by making sure they have safe foods available, a quiet space, low-stimulation activities, reducing noise and decorations, etc. Dress for comfort and keep it casual to reduce sensory overload for your autistic guests.
https://beaminghealth.com/article/how-to-host-an-accessible-autism-friendly-holiday-party
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