12/05/2025
🎄 A Caregiver’s Guide to Attending the Christmas Parade With an Autistic Child 🎄
The Christmas parade can be magical — and also a lot. If you’re planning to go with your autistic kiddo, here are some tips to help make it a smoother, more comfortable experience:
✨ Before You Go
• Talk through what to expect: crowds, lights, sirens, music, and waiting.
• Show pictures or short videos of past parades to help your child visualize it.
• Pack a small sensory kit: headphones, sunglasses, fidgets, snacks, and a comfort item.
• If your child is a runner or tends to elope, consider using a tether or harness for added safety and peace of mind.
• Pick a spot that gives your child space — the edges, a quieter corner, or somewhere with an easy exit route.
✨ During the Parade
• Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds are totally fair game.
• Let your child move, stim, flap, or sit however they need.
• If the crowds feel too intense, don’t hesitate to relocate or take a break.
• If your child wants to leave early or watch from farther away, go with what works for them.
✨ After the Parade
• Plan some downtime afterward — quiet play, screens, dim lights, or whatever helps them settle.
• Celebrate the wins, even if the win was “we stayed for five minutes and that was enough.”
And remember: there’s no one “right” way to do a parade.
Your kid’s comfort and safety matter more than tradition or expectations. You’re doing great. 💛