Serene Holidays: Sensory-Friendly Decorating Tips for a Calmer Festive Season
The holiday season brings joy, warmth, and excitement, but for families with children or adults sensitive to sensory input, it can also bring overstimulation and stress. The glittering lights, bustling crowds, and endless sounds can quickly overwhelm individuals with sensory processing challenges. I’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful adjustments in holiday décor can create a calmer, more inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy.
Here are practical and creative sensory-friendly holiday decorating tips to help you craft a serene festive season:
1. Keep Lighting Calm and Adjustable
Twinkling lights are synonymous with the holidays, but for individuals with sensory sensitivities, flashing or overly bright lights can be overwhelming. Opt for:
Soft, Warm Lighting: Use warm white string lights with a steady glow instead of flashing options.
Dimmer Switches: Install dimmers to control light intensity.
Projector Lights: These provide subtle, moving patterns on walls or ceilings without overwhelming the senses.
2. Use Natural, Soft Materials
Avoid sharp, scratchy, or overly synthetic decorations. Choose:
Natural Elements: Pinecones, wood ornaments, and greenery are visually soothing and have calming textures.
Fabric Décor: Incorporate soft textiles like felt garlands, fleece stockings, and velvet ribbons.
3. Limit Overpowering Scents
Strong holiday scents from candles or sprays can be overwhelming. Instead:
Choose Unscented or Mild Scents: Opt for light, natural aromas such as pine or cinnamon.
Diffuse Essential Oils Sparingly: If using scents, keep them subtle and localized.
4. Create a Quiet Zone
Designate a sensory-friendly space where individuals can retreat when feeling overwhelmed:
Soft Seating: Include bean bags, cushions, or rocking chairs for comfort.
Low Lighting: Add soft lamps or string lights for a gentle ambiance.
Calm Activities: Stock this area with books, puzzles, or sensory toys.
5. Use Predictable Patterns and Colors
Bright, mismatched colors and busy patterns can overstimulate. Choose:
Neutral Palettes: Stick to soft, muted tones like creams, greens, and golds.
Coordinated Décor: Match colors and themes across your decorations for a cohesive look.
6. Incorporate Sensory-Soothing Features
Certain decorations can be calming when thoughtfully incorporated:
Weighted Blankets: Add holiday-themed weighted blankets for coziness.
Soft Sounds: Use low-volume holiday music or nature sounds.
Interactive Décor: Include sensory-friendly items like squishy ornaments or felt trees with movable decorations.
7. Avoid Clutter
Too many decorations in one space can be overwhelming. Keep it simple:
Minimalist Style: Focus on a few meaningful decorations instead of filling every corner.
Functional Layout: Maintain open pathways and clear surfaces for a sense of order.
8. Use Child-Inclusive Decorating
Encourage children to participate in decorating to make the process engaging and empowering:
DIY Decorations: Make paper snowflakes, handprint ornaments, or garlands together.
Safe Materials: Use shatterproof ornaments and avoid items with sharp edges or small parts.
9. Incorporate Calming Activities into Traditions
Shift focus from overwhelming stimuli to sensory-friendly holiday traditions:
Quiet Crafting: Host family craft nights instead of loud gatherings.
Nature Walks: Collect natural elements like pinecones and leaves for decorating.
Story Time: Read holiday stories in a cozy, quiet setting.
10. Test Decorations Beforehand
Before fully decorating, introduce new items slowly to gauge comfort levels:
Gradual Introduction: Add one or two new elements at a time.
Seek Feedback: Ask sensitive family members for input on the decorations.
With a bit of planning and consideration, your holiday décor can become a source of calm and connection rather than overstimulation. By adopting sensory-friendly decorating tips, you create a festive atmosphere that everyone—regardless of their sensory needs—can truly enjoy. Remember, the holiday spirit is about joy and togetherness, and a thoughtfully designed space can help foster both.
