Autistic anxiety about Christmas presents

Christmas is different for everyone. For those who celebrate it, it is an occasion that can’t begin to be considered typical or predictable. While this may be exciting to many, it can be alarming or anxiety-provoking to others and this includes many children who are Autistic. Even though they may love being with family, times of unpredictability can make it make it hard for them to participate in this special family time.

So let’s talk about Christmas presents.

Presents tend to be wrapped; pretty paper, ribbons and bows, odd shapes, different weights, and labels. We put them under a tree that’s covered in shiny, glittery decorations and then we gather round… and in our excitement we might generate a lot of noise! Voices, laughter, hubbub, music perhaps, as well as ripping paper, rustling, toys that make noises or electronic gadgets. Careful thought has gone into what is in each present and while the giver hopes the content will be well received, even the younger receivers have an inbuilt sense of needing to give the right or best response.

If you stop and think, it's an incredibly ‘full on’ time. If you are Autistic this can all equal pressure.

Several years ago the parents of one of NNT’s amazing Autistic children told us of their solution to this anxiety-provoking anticipation and the advice has since been rolled out to many families, with great success:

Write a label and stick it on the outside of the present to tell the Autistic child what is inside.

This is honestly not spoiling the fun. It may go against the grain of what is usual, but the Autistic child then does not have to worry or be fearful, and will feel immediately less overwhelmed. They will still have the pleasure of unwrapping, but by removing this pressure, he or she is able to accommodate the heightened sensory and emotional escalation and in doing so, can enjoy the activity alongside everyone else.

Try it and see.

Emma Puttock
Occupational Therapist