Why Holidays Feel Big for Neurodiverse Brains
✨ One thing to remember
The holidays have a very specific vibe: everything gets brighter, louder, busier, sweeter, and somehow stickier. It’s like the whole month of December gets turned up a few notches — and everyone’s just supposed to roll with it.
But neurodiverse brains — including individuals with FASD — often thrive on routine, predictability, and environments that aren’t constantly throwing curveballs. Research shows these brains process sensory information differently and can hit overload far sooner than others.
So when you notice your loved one getting overwhelmed, more reactive, or ready to tap out long before the festivities are over…
that’s not “behaviour.”
That’s a brain saying, “This is a lot right now, thank you.”
And honestly? They’re not wrong.
✨ One thing to release
Release the pressure to be the family that “does it all.”
The holidays are notorious for making caregivers feel like they should be baking, hosting, attending, crafting, and magically staying regulated the entire time.
Families raising children with FASD, and caregivers supporting neurodiverse individuals, are operating with real brain-based needs in mind — and that requires intention, not pressure.
You get to choose how big or small your version of the holidays is.
And “smaller” doesn’t mean “less special.”
Often, it means “way more peaceful,” which everyone appreciates (even if they don’t say it out loud).
✨ One thing that may help today
Pick one holiday activity and edit it down to something more manageable — think of it as giving the season a friendly little haircut.
Try one:
Swap the massive holiday event for a drive to look at lights (with comfy clothes absolutely encouraged).
Trade the “bake everything from scratch” idea for decorating store-bought cookies.
Choose a shorter visit instead of a full-evening commitment — planned exit strategies are acts of love.
Focus on one outing instead of three; the holidays are not a triathlon.
These small adjustments reduce sensory load, support regulation, and make the whole day feel more approachable.
And bonus: they often make space for the moments you actually want to remember.
