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Happy Holidays

By: Cristina Martínez M.B.A, M.S, BCBA, LBA Coauthor: Ariadna Martin MS

This post can be seen as a continuation of the one we did exactly one year ago, in which we talked about how to make Christmas a happy time for everyone. In particular, we described ways to ensure a merry season for those families whose members have special needs. The goal remains the same: to contribute to the happiness of our clients... but this time, we bring therapeutic elements from the perspective of Applied Behavior Analysis. Here we go!.

  1. ABA often uses Social Stories to prepare individuals for new or challenging situations. Creating social stories that outline the various aspects of Christmas (attending parties, receiving gifts, or participating in holiday traditions) can help kids understand what to expect and how to behave in different situations.
  2. Visual Supports, such as schedules, calendars, and visual cues, can be beneficial during the holiday season. Creating visual schedules to outline the events and activities planned for Christmas can help to understand the sequence of events and manage transitions.
  3. ABA emphasizes the use of Positive Reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. Identifying the kids’ preferred reinforcers and using them to motivate and reward positive behavior during Christmas activities may be essential in the process.
  4. If the child is sensitive to new sensory experiences, Gradually Expose them to the sights, sounds, and smells associated with Christmas. Using desensitization techniques can help them become more comfortable with the holiday environment.
  5. Enhance Communication Skills using ABA techniques. Teaching and reinforcing communication methods, such as using visual supports, gestures, or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, may help individuals express their needs and preferences during Christmas activities.
  6. Implement Antecedent Strategies: Anticipating potential triggers and using strategies to address them before they escalate (providing breaks, using calming activities, or offering alternative coping mechanisms) can prevent challenging behaviors.
  7. Maintain a Structured and Predictable Environment. During the holiday season, try to maintain consistent daily routines as much as possible, and communicate any changes in advance.

Each strategy mentioned here takes value when it is part of a plan tailored to the unique needs of our clients. It is essential that in our role as behavior analysts or therapists, we build Individualized Plans that fit each child, and each family we treat. Only in this way, like Santa, can we spread the magic of Christmas to all!

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