Winter Holiday Activities for Neurodivergent Kids

The winter holidays are here, and as a parent, they can bring a mix of stressful and excitement. If you have a neurodivergent child, the break in routine can be confusing and frustrating for them—and this is distressing and stressful for you. However, there are ways to ensure your child still has structure they crave, is having fun, and feels involved in the celebrations. 

Here are some ideas to create fun, connection, and learning through engaging activities that cater to your neurodivergent child’s strengths and interests. 

Creative and Artistic Activities for Neurodivergent Kids

1. Sensory-Friendly Crafts:

   • Make holiday decorations using materials with appealing textures, like soft felt, glitter glue, or puffy paint.

   • Create a sensory bottle with winter themes (e.g., "snow" glitter, tiny pinecones).

2. Holiday-Themed Art Projects:

   • Draw or paint winter scenes with easy-to-hold tools like chunky crayons or brushes.

   • Use stamps or stencils to create cards or wrapping paper.

3. DIY Gifts:

   • Help them make simple, personalized gifts, like beaded jewelry or painted ornaments.

   • Bake cookies and decorate them together.

   
   
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STEM-Inspired Fun

4. Winter Science Experiments:

   • Make "snow" using baking soda and water or test how salt affects ice melting.

   • Build a small volcano and add “snow” decorations for a holiday twist.

5. Lego or Block Challenges:

   • Build winter-themed creations like igloos, sleds, or snowmen.

   • Encourage imaginative play by creating a story around their structures.

6. Cooking or Baking:

   • Involve them in measuring, stirring, and decorating treats to practice math and fine motor skills.

     

   
   

Movement and Sensory Activities

7. Indoor Obstacle Course:

   • Create a winter adventure course using pillows, tunnels, or sensory items like balance beams.

   • Add fun challenges like pretending to "ice skate" on paper plates.

8. Snow Play:

   • If snow is available, build a snowman or have a scavenger hunt for items hidden in the snow.

   • For indoor sensory fun, use fake snow made from cornstarch and shaving cream.

9. Dance Party:

   • Play holiday music and create a simple dance routine.

   • Use scarves or ribbons for extra sensory input.

Educational Adventures

10. Storytime with Themes:

    • Read winter-themed books, then act out the stories or draw scenes.

    • Create a quiet reading nook with cozy blankets and pillows.

11. Holiday-Themed Puzzles and Games:

    • Try word searches, matching games, or simple board games tailored to their level.

    • Make a scavenger hunt with clues that build problem-solving skills.

12. Learning Through Cooking:

    • Talk about the science of baking or explore recipes from different cultures.

Social and Emotional Activities

13. Role-Playing Social Scenarios:

    • Practice greetings or gift-giving using props like toys or craft items.

    • Use puppets to navigate common holiday interactions.

14. Gratitude Jar:

    • Encourage writing or drawing things they’re thankful for to place in a decorated jar.

15. Mindfulness and Relaxation:

    • Practice deep breathing or do yoga with a winter-themed twist (e.g., “pretend to be a snowflake”).

Building Independence and Life Skills

16. Daily Schedule Creation:

    • Let them help plan holiday activities using a visual schedule.

    • Assign small, manageable responsibilities, like setting the table for a meal.

17. Winter Cleaning Together:

    • Organize toys or clothes to donate, teaching empathy and generosity.

Technology-Based Fun

18. Educational Apps and Games:

    • Explore apps that focus on math, reading, or puzzles with a winter theme.

19. Make a Holiday Movie:

    • Use a phone or tablet to create a simple video about your holiday traditions.

Having your child participate in these tailored activities for neurodivergent kids supports your child’s sensory needs, learning style, and interests, making the holidays both enjoyable and enriching!