Planning Ahead

Positive experiences often depend on good planning. Having an exploratory conversation can be a helpful starting point. This includes discussing what is being planned, potential scenarios, and procedures to prevent unplanned or overwhelming situations.

If specific assistance is needed, discuss and explore ideas at an early stage. This may include agreeing on particular actions or tasks in advance and during key festive days. However, never impose expectations or apply pressure that is unrealistic or harmful.

Start arranging detailed planning actions well ahead of the festive season. This is the time to discuss plans for key Christmas dates with a trusted family member or friend. Break down what is being planned and talk through possible scenarios. Listen carefully to any concerns or areas a person feels they cannot manage.

If there are complex situations or concerns raised by a neurodivergent person, respect their voice. Do not respond rashly or interrupt them. Instead, explore open questions together and aim to reach an informal, supportive agreement. Busier Retail Environments
The environment may be busier during the festive period, but it is equally important not to use festive pressures as an excuse to mistreat others. Some people may not be able to manage or navigate crowded environments in the same way as others, so it is important not to intimidate or challenge their presence.

Remember, some people are at higher risk of accidents, such as falls or injuries, due to their difficulties. Think before you judge or intervene. Everyone has the right to navigate public places and open spaces safely and sustainably. We must not interfere with or disrupt others who have varying abilities.

Friends and Acquaintances Arranging to Catch Up or Make Phone Calls
Do not offload.

Some experiences may seem minor to you, but neurodivergent people still have the right to be listened to and heard. Never offload your feelings if a neurodivergent person is not given space to share their own experiences without being made to feel insignificant.

Equally, never overload them with rage, grudges, or frustration. Keep conversations short and brief, and avoid extending them beyond 15–20 minutes unless the person is comfortable. Overloading someone not only makes it harder for a neurodivergent person to offer support or empathy, but it can also be alienating. It may strain their mental health, disrupt their coping strategies, and negatively affect their relationships, sense of purpose, and life opportunities.

Around a week before Christmas
For Family and Friends Planning to Spend Time With a Neurodivergent Person

Christmas Day and Boxing Day with families and friends can be a positive way for the festive season. It can have several levels of emotions and mindsets. In other words, different situations may occur that you may not expect, which might turn out very positively. However, there might be challenging or very negative situations which occur so preparation with option is a good way to manage any situation.

If possible, arrange a catch-up or phone call ahead of time. However, avoid offloading your emotions (such as frustrations, grudges, or unresolved challenges) as this can unintentionally diminish the other person’s positive spirit, especially around Christmas.

Some experiences may not feel relevant to you, but every person has the right to be listened to and heard. Never unload your emotions at a time when a neurodivergent person is denied the space to share theirs without being made to feel insignificant. Likewise, avoid expressing rage, resentment, or prolonged frustration.

Keep conversations short and focused—ideally no longer than 15–20 minutes. Overloading emotional discussions not only makes it harder for a neurodivergent person to offer support or empathy, but can also lead to emotional strain, alienation, and harm to their mental health. This may disrupt their coping strategies, sense of purpose, relationships, and future opportunities.