The holiday season is filled with joy, family gatherings, and a much-needed break from school routines. But for children receiving ABA therapy, especially those on the autism spectrum, long breaks can bring unexpected challenges. The sudden shift in structure and environment can affect progress, behavior, and emotional regulation. That’s why maintaining engagement—while embracing the season—is essential.
At VBA California, we support families across California in applying the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis not just in sessions, but also at home and during transitions. With a thoughtful approach, holiday breaks can become a valuable time for bonding, growth, and generalization of skills. Here’s how you can keep your child engaged and supported during winter break.
1. Maintain a Modified Routine
Children receiving ABA therapy often thrive with structure and predictability. While the full school-day schedule might not be realistic during the holidays, maintaining a basic routine can make a big difference.
Try incorporating:
- Consistent wake-up and bedtime routines
- Regular meal and snack times
- Planned “quiet time” or breaks throughout the day
Use visual schedules or checklists to help your child anticipate what’s coming next. Even a simplified routine can help maintain a sense of stability and reduce behavioral disruptions.
2. Embed Learning into Fun Holiday Activities
The holiday season offers countless natural opportunities for learning, skill-building, and social engagement. With a little planning, you can turn everyday traditions into ABA-friendly moments.
Some examples include:
- Baking cookies – Practice sequencing, following instructions, and requesting ingredients
- Gift wrapping – Improve fine motor skills and attention to task
- Holiday crafts – Use colors, shapes, and labeling to strengthen receptive and expressive language
Keep sessions short and positive, and use lots of praise and reinforcement. These activities can be both educational and festive.
3. Encourage Communication Through Play
Holiday breaks often mean more unstructured playtime. This is a great chance to reinforce communication goals. Use your child’s preferred toys or activities to practice:
- Mand training (requests)
- Turn-taking and joint attention
- Labeling actions, objects, and emotions
Even five to ten minutes of focused play per day can have a meaningful impact. And because you’re embedding these skills in enjoyable moments, your child may be more motivated to participate.
4. Plan Sensory-Friendly Outings
Holiday events can be overwhelming for children with sensory sensitivities. Crowds, lights, and unpredictable settings may lead to sensory overload. Choose outings carefully and prepare in advance.
Helpful strategies include:
- Bringing noise-canceling headphones or comfort items
- Previewing the event through social stories or visual aids
- Scheduling breaks or identifying quiet areas ahead of time
Many communities in California offer sensory-friendly holiday events, including quiet Santa visits, calm movie showings, or inclusive craft fairs. These can provide great opportunities for safe social exposure.
5. Practice Social Skills at Family Gatherings
Holiday gatherings provide natural social settings to work on skills like greetings, sharing, and making choices. With a bit of role-playing beforehand, your child can feel more prepared and confident.
Before the event, practice:
- Saying hello and goodbye
- Asking for help or making choices (“Do you want apple juice or water?”)
- Expressing needs (“I need a break” or “All done”)
Be sure to celebrate successes and offer gentle prompts when needed. Social settings can be challenging, but also incredibly valuable for reinforcing progress made in therapy.
6. Stay Connected with Your ABA Provider
Consistency between home and therapy settings is key to progress. Even if sessions are reduced during the holidays, maintain communication with your ABA provider. Ask for guidance on:
- Daily routines and reinforcer strategies
- Target skills to focus on during break
- Support with transitions back to school or therapy
At VBA California, we work closely with families to create home-based strategies that complement clinical goals. If you’re unsure how to support your child during the break, we’re here to help.
7. Don’t Forget Self-Care for Parents
Caring for a child with developmental needs during the holidays can feel overwhelming. Remember that your well-being matters, too. Try to carve out time for your own rest, reflection, and support.
Even short breaks, time with friends, or participating in a parent support group can provide much-needed balance. A rested, supported caregiver is better equipped to support their child.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of the Season
The holidays don’t have to disrupt your child’s progress—in fact, they can be an opportunity to strengthen real-world skills, deepen family bonds, and celebrate personal growth. With the right supports and strategies, children receiving ABA therapy can thrive even during time away from structured sessions.
Contact us today if you’d like help building a holiday routine or continuing ABA support during winter break. At VBA California, we’re here to support your family every season of the year.