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The countdown to Christmas is a magical time that is full of anticipation and excitement for children. One popular tradition that builds anticipation are children using advent calendars but what is an advent calendar and how can they be beneficial for children who struggle with sensory processing disorder?
An advent calendar is a calendar that has 24 windows or compartments to open. They are designed to be opened daily leading up to Christmas Eve (December 24th). Each day a small treat or toy is revealed and this builds excitement and anticipation for the holiday season.
There are many different types of advent calendars. The most traditional advent calendar is the chocolate advent calendars. There is a piece of chocolate behind each window for children as they count down to Christmas. There are also toy advent calendars too that have figurines and small toys behind each door of their advent calendar.
Some parents get very creative with advent calendars and create a DIY advent calendar for their children. They fill them with small gifts, sensory fidgets, slime, activities and personalized gifts they know their children will love.
There are sensory advent calendars too that are designed for a child's sensory needs. This way, a child will receive a sensory tool for each day leading up until Christmas Eve. These sensory advent calendars can be very beneficial for kids as the holiday season can feel very overwhelming for them.
Advent calendars offer a multitude of benefits, especially for children who have sensory differences. Having a daily countdown builds excitement and anticipation for the Christmas helps children learn patience. Opening the advent calendar everyday can provide a predictable routine during the holidays when there are so many changes happening in their usual routine.
Sensory advent calendars can provide sensory input with different senses throughout the holidays. This can help children regulate their sensory system and keep them calm. Some advent calendars for children will include educational items like numbers or letters to encourage learning in a fun way.
Opening a Christmas advent calendar together as a family can create a special shared experience and it is a great opportunity to connect during the most magical time of year. This can make memories that will last a life time.
Choosing the right advent calendar for a child with sensory differences is important. Look for advent calendars with natural materials and calming colors. Avoid those with noises or flashing lights to avoid sensory overload.
Choosing an advent calendar with simple toys and calming activities can help reduce a child's anxiety over the holidays. Repetitive toys can help children know what to expect because some children get anxious not know what type of toy they will open. Surprises and suspense can be difficult for some children. Try choosing a calendar to meet your child's sensory needs and preferences.
Include items sensory tools for tactile exploration such as sensory play dough, squishy fidgets or slime because they can provide calming tactile sensory input. Be mindful of the number of items in the windows each day to prevent your child from experiencing sensory overload.
Advent calendars are a great way for children to feel the excited about the holiday season and have something to look forward too each day. They are fantastic for children of all ages and abilities. Choosing the right Christmas advent calendar and being mindful of a child's sensory needs can ensure that this holiday tradition is a positive experience for them.
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DISCLAIMER: I have learned a lot over the years but I am still learning. Always do your own research and exercise sound judgment. I am not an occupational therapist or a physician. I am an adult who has sensory processing disorder, a sensory parent and a Grandma. The information on this website is not medical advice and does not replace the information that your child's therapists or medical professionals give you. These are just ideas that I have learned myself over the years of being a parent and an adult living with SPD. If you are concerned for your child, please always seek medical attention through a family doctor, pediatrician or therapist. This website is for awareness and support purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different sensory needs. Please always consult with a professional.
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