It can be easy to think there's only one way to 'do Christmas right'. But there isn't. Try to let go of some of the expectations of the day. Whatever works for you and your family is OK.

Sometimes the pressure of opening presents in front of others and showing the 'correct' response can be too much, Allow people to open guests on their own, when they choose. 

If you’re hosting Christmas, you might like to make one of the bedrooms a chill-out space. Mention it when people arrive, so everyone knows it’s available if they need some quiet time.

When you invite people, include a schedule of timings and activities. Knowing what to expect can help Autistic people feel more relaxed.

Making small talk can be hard, especially with people you might not see often. Conversation cards on the table with simple, inclusive topics can be helpful.

When it’s noisy, smelly, and kids are running around, it can be too much sensory input. Consider ways to reduce it - use headphones to block out loud noises, consider the lighting or provide sunglasses. Zoning out to a family Christmas movie can be a great way to decompress, and keep children entertained at the same time.

Not everyone is comfortable with physical touch as a form of greeting. Ask people how they would like to be greeted such as a hug, hand-shake, fist bump or wave. Parents or a trusted person can help by making sure boundaries are respected.

Some Autistic people have trouble with certain foods. If you’re hosting, let people know they’re welcome to bring their ‘safe’ foods. And if others bring a plate, it’s less work for you too!