If your house looks anything like mine in December- half-eaten advent chocolates, tangled fairy lights, and kids bouncing between excitement and overwhelm- then you’re not alone. The festive season can be magical, but it can also be a lot for our sensory-sensitive kids (and let’s be honest, for us too).
Between end-of-year concerts, loud shopping centres, new smells, flashing lights, and changes to routine, it’s no wonder emotions can run high. While most families are diving headfirst into the Christmas chaos, many of us are quietly planning how to make it all just a little more manageable.
Start by simplifying
It’s okay to do Christmas your way. You don’t need to attend every event or have matching pyjamas for the perfect photo. Think about what really matters to your family-and what might make the season feel calmer.
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Say yes to what brings connection and joy.
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Say no (or not this year) to what feels like too much.
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Build in quiet moments between the busy ones.
Sometimes that might mean skipping the Santa photo queue or opening presents slowly over a few days instead of all at once.
Create calm spaces
When the noise, lights, and excitement start to tip into overload, a calm space can make all the difference. You don’t need anything fancy- just a cosy corner with soft lighting, familiar textures, and maybe a few favourite fidgets or calm-down tools.
Our Calm Down Bottles, visual timers, and fidget toys are beautiful additions to these spaces, helping kids self-regulate and reset when things get too loud or unpredictable.
Make sensory play part of the magic
Christmas is full of opportunities for sensory play- think Playfoam Pluffle or Sensory Snow, or calm-down bottles filled with glittering red and green magic. These kinds of activities not only keep little hands busy but also provide regulating sensory input in a season that can feel overstimulating.
If you’re after ideas, our Christmas fidget range and festive calm-down bottles are a great way to blend play and regulation. (Bonus: they also make perfect stocking stuffers!)
Keep routines where you can
Kids thrive on predictability, and December tends to throw that right out the window. Try to keep mealtimes, bedtimes, and downtime as consistent as possible.
Visual schedules or timers can be a big help here- our Rainbow Visual Countdown Timer is especially useful for those tricky transitions between activities or events.
And for the grown-ups…
Remember, it’s okay if you’re feeling sensory overload too. Put on the kettle, find your quiet five minutes, and take a few deep breaths. You’re doing great.
At The Sensory Sloth, we know this time of year can be both magical and messy. Our goal is to make it a little calmer- with sensory tools and thoughtful gifts that support your family’s unique needs.
Here’s to a Christmas that feels calm, kind, and just right for you.
