A More Inclusive Christmas: Small Changes, Big Impact

Christmas is often described as "the most wonderful time of the year", a season filled with music, twinkling lights, packed calendars, and joyful noise. But for some, especially autistic people, the holidays can also bring sensory overload, social fatigue, and unexpected anxiety.

Creating an autism friendly Christmas doesn’t mean cancelling the celebrations or dialling down the joy. It means considering different needs, making small thoughtful changes, and - most importantly - inviting the autistic person in your life into the conversation. Because what feels inclusive and supportive for one person might be overwhelming or unhelpful for another.

Here’s how to make your festivities more inclusive this year, while embracing the true spirit of Christmas: kindness, connection, and care.

Let Them Lead the Way

The most important thing you can do? Ask. Don’t assume.

Not every autistic person will find Christmas difficult. And those who do may find joy in very different aspects of the season than you expect. One person might love wrapping presents in a quiet room; another might enjoy the routine of a traditional Christmas meal.

So rather than guessing or tiptoeing, make space for an open conversation. Ask questions like:

• “Are there any parts of Christmas you find stressful?”

• “Would you prefer to be told plans in advance, or keep things flexible?”

• “Is there a way you’d like to celebrate that feels good for you?”

Inclusivity begins with listening, and trusting people to know what works best for them. Even autistic people who may be non-verbal will still have ways of expressing how they are feeling about something.

Remember - non-verbal communication is still communication.

Keep Sensory Sensitivities in Mind

For many autistic people, Christmas can feel like a sensory minefield: flashing lights, loud music, unfamiliar smells, scratchy jumpers. A few small adjustments can help ease that overwhelm.

• Create a quiet space where someone can retreat to if they need a break from noise or crowds.

• Dim the lights or offer alternatives to flashing decorations.

• Avoid strong-scented candles or air fresheners, what smells "festive" to some can be overpowering to others.

• Let them dress for comfort, not for photos. (A soft hoodie beats a scratchy Christmas jumper any day.)

Sensory differences aren’t about being “difficult”, they’re about navigating the world in a different way. Making the environment more comfortable helps everyone feel welcome.

Share the Plan (or Keep Things Flexible)

Some autistic people thrive on routine. Sudden changes or surprise plans can cause anxiety or confusion. Others might prefer spontaneity and find rigid schedules stressful.

Ask how they like to approach events, and give as much information as you can in advance if they prefer it. This could include:

• A clear start and end time for gatherings

• What food will be served

• Who will be there, and what the plan is

• Where the quiet space is if they need it

Even something simple like sending the plan ahead in a message can make a world of difference.

Give Options, Not Obligations

It can be easy to unintentionally pressure people into joining every activity or tradition -  whether that’s carol singing, party games, or pulling crackers at the dinner table.

Instead, try to offer invitations, not expectations. Let people know:

• “You’re welcome to join in if you’d like, but there’s no pressure.”

• “If you want to skip this part, that’s totally fine.”

• “You don’t have to stay the whole time, whatever feels good for you.”

Inclusivity means making space for people to opt out without guilt.

Rethink Gift Giving

Gifts are meant to be joyful, but they can bring stress - especially for autistic individuals who find surprises difficult, dislike waste, or struggle with social expectations.

You might try:

• Asking if they’d prefer to choose their own gift, or receive something practical or familiar

• Using simple, easy-to-open packaging (skip the glitter tape and three layers of cellophane)

• Giving them a heads-up on what to expect, especially if opening gifts in front of others

And remember - not everyone enjoys the performance of “opening in front of the group.” Give them the option to open gifts privately, if that’s what they’d prefer.

Focus on Connection, Not Perfection

It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of the “perfect” Christmas, but at its heart, this season is about connection, not tradition. If someone skips the party, avoids the crackers, or wants a quiet moment away from the table, it doesn’t mean the day is any less joyful.

Often, the most inclusive thing you can do is simply let people be themselves, without needing to change or conform. Celebrate the little wins. Respect boundaries. And know that making someone feel safe and seen is the most powerful gift you can give.

A Kinder Christmas for Everyone

An autism friendly Christmas doesn’t look one particular way. It could be quieter, more flexible, or more structured depending on the needs of the person you’re supporting. But at its core, it’s about inclusivity: making sure everyone has a seat at the table and a celebration they can truly enjoy.

Christmas should be magical, not just for some, but for everyone. It’s why we champion diversity in our workplace, and why we’re passionate about spreading joy that doesn’t leave anyone behind.

So this Christmas, let’s all be a little gentler. A little more curious. A little more human. Because when we build traditions that include everyone, we build a season that’s better for all of us.