In this episode of Autistic Advocacy, Matt and Angela explore how to create a joyful, neurodivergent Christmas by letting go of societal expectations, prioritizing sensory needs, and embracing personalized traditions. They unpack the pressures of picture-perfect Hallmark holidays, the disruptions to autistic routines, and the importance of setting boundaries—while also sharing strategies for reducing overstimulation and making the season truly your own.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Why Hallmark-style Christmas ideals can create unrealistic and unhelpful expectations for autistic people.
• How holiday routine disruptions can cause dysregulation and what to do about it.
• Navigating family gatherings when other autistic relatives are undiagnosed or in denial.
• Practical meltdown management tools, from sensory supports to safe people.
• How to advocate for accommodations like reduced noise, dimmed lights, or skipping certain traditions.
• Setting healthy boundaries around physical touch and interactions with relatives.
• The importance of a “holiday comfort kit” for sensory regulation.
• Matt’s Christmas Dragon tradition and the joy of making your own autistic-friendly holiday customs.
• Autistic gift-giving strengths and why they shine during the holidays.
• Food rules and safe food strategies for surviving family meals.
• Self-care ideas to carry you through the gauntlet of Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day.

Resources:

Jade Farrington’s Community Guide to a Happy Neurodivergent Christmas

Related Episodes:

Krampus is Autistic

Christmas is Autistic

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