How to Make Your Holiday Gatherings More Inclusive
Holiday concerts, cookie swaps, building snowmen, and family dinners are a small sampling of the different ways families celebrate the holidays. At RISE Services, Inc. Missouri, we recommend implementing some of the strategies below to create fun, memorable, and inclusive holiday celebrations for everyone at your table. 
Positive & Welcoming Atmosphere
An inclusive holiday gathering begins in a positive and welcoming home. Create a sense of belonging by speaking with the adult guests living with an IDD before the event to learn more about their home holiday celebrations. Perhaps they receive one small gift to open each night of Hanukkah. Maybe they watch a favorite holiday movie or listen to Christmas music during family get-togethers. Incorporating one or two of these traditions into your holiday gatherings can help them feel comfortable and safe in an unfamiliar place.
Sensory-Friendly Environment
For family members with ASD and other disabilities, family get-togethers with loud conversations and in smaller spaces can understandably lead to sensory overload. Have a plan in place to address this before the festivities begin. Prepare a quiet room in your home with dim lights and comfortable seating. Consider adding sensory tools, such as fidget toys, fluffy blankets, and noise-reduction headphones, to help ease any overstimulation. Let the individuals know this room is available for them anytime they need it.
Participation & Responsibilities
At RISE Services, Inc. Missouri, our Adult Day Programs include purpose-filled activities, social skills building, and community living skills to empower adults living with disabilities as they work toward personal goals. You can do the same for guests this holiday season if that is something they’d enjoy doing. Maybe they would like to welcome visitors at the door, help set the table for the main meal, or pass out holiday gifts. This not only strengthens their goals toward independence but also reinforces that they are valued and capable members of the group or family.
Serving St. Louis & Surrounding Areas
We proudly support adults living with disabilities in St. Louis and neighboring counties. Our passion is to assist individuals in gaining self-confidence, knowing they are valuable members of their community, and successfully living with independence. Contact us today to learn more about our employment services, community and professional support, and social enterprises.
