Holiday Tips for Autism: Preparing Families, Reducing Stress & Creating Predictability | Eye on Autism

In this episode of the [Eye] on Autism Podcast, clinical psychologist Dr. Michael Romas sits down with Dr. Dana Reinecke, a NYS-licensed psychologist and behavioral analyst, to explore how the holiday season impacts children and adults on the autism spectrum.Dr. Reinecke breaks down why changes in routines, sensory overload, unfamiliar environments, and emotional transitions can be especially challenging — and offers practical strategies families, caregivers, and staff can use to create predictability and emotional safety.Topics include visual supports, social stories, communication systems, coping with sensory overload, preparing extended family, managing transitions back to school or residential programs, and understanding the emotional “blues” that often follow the holiday season.This conversation is packed with evidence-based insights to help families and professionals make the holidays more meaningful, manageable, and supportive for autistic individuals of all ages.If you find this content helpful, please like, subscribe, and share to help build a more inclusive world.Learn more or support DDI’s mission: ddiny.org