December 2025

Managing Holiday Overwhelm

The holidays can be fun, but they can also bring a lot of changes—new schedules, loud places, bright decorations, and long events. For many children with disabilities, these changes can feel overwhelming. Planning ahead can make the season calmer and more enjoyable for everyone. Understanding your child’s needs, watching for stress signs, and preparing for changes can help things go more smoothly.

Simple tools can help children feel more comfortable during busy days. Social stories, picture schedules, and short “practice runs” show children what to expect before a big event. Try to keep parts of their normal routine when you can. When traveling, bring comfort items like a small toy, headphones, or a favorite blanket. At home or at gatherings, create a quiet space where the child can take a break if they get overwhelmed. Professionals can support families by offering flexible expectations and helping plan sensory-friendly activities.

The holidays should be enjoyable—not exhausting. Give your child (and yourself) time to rest. When families, schools, and community members work together and plan ahead, children with disabilities can feel confident, comfortable, and included.

For Family and Friends Who Are Hosting a Child With a Disability

If you are hosting a holiday gathering and a child with a disability will be attending, a few thoughtful steps can make a big difference. Start by asking the family what the child may need to feel safe and comfortable. It’s okay if the child brings comfort items, takes breaks, or participates in a different way. Your understanding helps the child enjoy the visit and helps the whole family feel welcome.

If you are hosting a party or community event this season, here are five simple ways to support children with disabilities and their families:

1. Try to make your home as accessible as you can.

Clear pathways, think about seating needs, and check if any areas may be hard to reach.

2. Think about ways to reduce the child’s stress.

Lower music volume, limit strong smells, dim bright or flashing lights, and offer a calm place for breaks.

3. Consider dietary requirements.

Ask about allergies, texture needs, or food restrictions before the gathering.

4. Respect differences.

Children may communicate, play, or participate in their own way. Follow their lead and allow flexibility.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Parents and caregivers are usually happy to share what helps their child feel comfortable.

Travel and busy events may require extra support, too. Bringing familiar items, keeping parts of the child’s routine, and preparing others ahead of time can help reduce stress.

Additional Resources

• Find Your Holiday Spirit Through Self-Care – Prioritize your own well-being
• California Training Institute – Tools for supporting children with disabilities
• Understood for Families – Guides for routines, sensory needs, and behavior
• Holiday Conversations: Manage Your Emotions and Improve Communication – Learning self-regulation
• HIE Help Center – Tips for inclusive hosting and understanding accommodations
• Friendship Circle – Family-friendly holiday support ideas

50th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

The 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was commemorated on November 29, 2025.

Originally enacted in 1975 as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, this landmark legislation guaranteed a free appropriate public education (FAPE) for millions of children with disabilities who previously had little to no access to public schooling.

The anniversary serves as a major civil rights milestone, transforming education for over 7 million children today through tools like the Individualized Education Program (IEP). However, the occasion also highlights ongoing challenges, notably the significant federal funding shortfall that places a burden on state and local resources.

With all the uncertainty regarding restructuring the Department of Education and funding concerns, the anniversary of IDEA provides an opportunity for us all to call for full federal funding to uphold the promise of the law for future generations. You are also always welcome to reach out to South Dakota’s Congressmen, John Thurn, Mike Rounds, and Dusty Johnson.

Diabetes Awareness Month

November was Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to learn more about diabetes and how it affects infants, children, youth, and adults. Diabetes happens when the body has trouble using or making insulin, a hormone that helps control blood sugar. When blood sugar is too high, it can lead to health problems. Learning the signs, staying informed, and working with your child’s care team can help keep your child healthy.

At South Dakota Parent Connection, we serve as South Dakota’s Family to Family Health Information Center. This means we help families find trusted information and support when their child has ongoing health needs, including diabetes. Below are helpful resources that explain symptoms to watch for, caring for a child with Type 2 diabetes, and tips for managing diabetes at school.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Learn what symptoms to look for:

• American Diabetes Association

Type 2 Diabetes in Children

Learn more about causes, symptoms, and treatment:

• Mayo Clinic
• Healthy Children

Managing Diabetes at School

Find tips and tools for helping your child stay safe during the school day:

• South Dakota Parent Connection
• South Dakota Diabetes Coalition
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

If your family needs help understanding diabetes information, school plans, or health supports, South Dakota Parent Connection is here to help. Our services are free and confidential. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Upcoming Events

See Where South Dakota Parent Connection Will Be!

Check out these upcoming events where our staff will be sharing information and resources to South Dakota families and those who support them. These opportunities provide valuable information, resources, and support for families across the state. To see where we’ll be next, check out our website or following us on Facebook. See you there!

South Dakota Parent Connection offices will be closed the following days:

• Christmas and New Year's: December 22 - January 2, 2026
• Martin Luther King Day: January 19, 2026

This e-publication was developed under grants from the U.S. Department of Education Project Grant H328M2000666 and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Grant H328M140021, Family to Family Health Information Center, $96,750; and approximately 5% financed with non-governmental resources. The contents should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by U.S. Department of Education, HRSA, HHS, or the Federal Government.