EY Newsletter: Tips for Navigating Big Changes In Routines with Your Child

Are big changes on the horizon for your family?

Whether it's gearing up for a holiday celebration, planning a much-needed vacation... or just handling the aftermath of the spring forward time change we understand how challenging it can be to navigate these events with a child who finds comfort and safety in routine.

For children with developmental disabilities, consistency and routine aren't just preferences—they're lifelines.

But we have seen that with thoughtful preparation and the right strategies, we can help our children not only adapt to but also find joy in new experiences.

Strategies for a Smooth Transition

•  Detailed Preparation: Utilize visual schedules or social stories to walk through upcoming changes together. These visual aids can clarify the unknown and make new concepts more accessible to your child.
  
  
•  Simulate New Experiences: Consider a 'practice run' at home before a major event. If a trip is on the cards, try sleeping in a different bed or dining in a setup that mimics the vacation environment.
  
  
•  Maintain Core Routines: Pinpoint the most reassuring aspects of your child's daily routine and keep these constant, even if other parts of the day shift. The continuity of a favorite bedtime story or a familiar morning routine can be incredibly comforting.
  
  
•  Gradual Introduction: Ease your child into new experiences with small, digestible steps. A short visit to a new place or a brief trial of an activity can significantly reduce anxiety about the overall experience.
  
  
•  Sensory Kits: Assemble a 'sensory kit' with items that calm or engage your child. This toolkit can be a lifesaver in new environments or during travel, where the risk of sensory overload is high.
  
  
•  Communicate with Others: If your plans include spending time with family or friends, sharing your child’s needs and preferences ahead of time sets everyone up for success, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.