Many children, including those with intellectual or developmental disabilities, face challenges when discovering and adapting to new sensations and routines. This reluctance can stem from various factors, including fears, discomfort and sensory sensitivities.

To support caregivers as they help their children navigate these daily challenges, the EarlyBrain project has developed a series of storybooks that can help to increase the understanding of caregivers towards their children and provide strategies for empowering children. By normalising struggles and offering concrete solutions, these stories empower children and caregivers to manage transitions with confidence and care.

The story ‘Happy Holidays’ aims to support parents and caregivers to understand and assist children with developmental disabilities in navigating festive holidays and changes in routines.

In this story, Mateo has difficulty understanding and coping with Christmas celebrations and changes in routines in general. His father creates a structured plan using visual schedules, familiar foods, and clear social expectations to help him enjoy the holidays. The key learning outcomes of this story are:

• The importance of predictable routines for children with autism or anxiety.
• Using visual supports and social stories to prepare for new experiences.
• Managing sensory overload in busy environments.
• Encouraging active participation in social events with personalised adjustments.

To access the ‘Happy Holidays’ story in English, Italian, Spanish and French, click here.

Background

The EarlyBrain project aims to provide parents and relatives of children with developmental delays with specific knowledge and skills to promote the development of their children. It is characterised by a joint, transdisciplinary and coordinated action to understand the child from a biopsychosocial approach and to empower parents/caregivers. The project will promote good practice exchange and raise awareness on the need of early childhood interventions in line with the Child Guarantee, UNCRC and UNCRPD.