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BOTH IN KNOX COUNTY SCHOOLS AND IN THE COMMUNITY

Email: Advisorycouncil@knoxschools.org
Website: https://www.knoxschools.org/domain/5429
Phone: 865-594-9582

The Holidays are here and there's a great deal to see and do in a relatively short time. How do you help everyone in the family enjoy the holiday season?

Discuss or even role play with your child. It is helpful for children to know what to expect. Prepare them for unfamiliar family members or situations by sharing pictures and pairing them with names and roll playing greetings. (Shaking hands, rules in other homes etc.)

· Go visual. Have a color coded calendar with velcro items so that things can be removed or changed if the schedule changes. This can help rigid thinkers.

· Pick your battles. This is not the time to force a child with food issues try everything on the buffet. Instead (Bring child friendly foods if needed.)

· Get comfortable. Make sure that your child has comfortable clothing and bring favorite items such as a blanket or favorite toy. Practice what to do when feeling overwhelmed. (Breathing, going to a quieter space, etc. to give your child and an out.)

· Encourage respecting personal space. If your child does not want to embrace unfamiliar relatives, encourage other ways that are more comfortable to your child. Gestures such as a high five, fist bump, or simply a wave are appropriate.

· Help adults by offering topics that your child feels comfortable (That your child has practiced). Such as talking about a recent field trip or other activity. This can put everyone more at ease and allows your child to shine.

Parents have good instincts on what your child can handle. Understanding that having a movie night at home in your pajamas will go a long way in helping to slowing things down and can make a big difference when dealing with a busy schedule. Trust your instincts and have a wonderful holiday season.