5 Tips to Support Kids with Autism This Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year can be a stressful time for families with children on the autism spectrum. The celebrations often include family gatherings, loud firecrackers, crowded spaces, and bright decorations—factors that can be overwhelming for children with sensory sensitivities.

Changes in routines, idle waiting, and traveling from place to place can trigger anxiety or meltdowns. Traditional customs, such as giving or receiving red envelopes, may feel confusing or unfamiliar. Interactions with extended family or individuals who may not understand autism can also create additional stress for both autistic children and their parents.

Balancing cultural traditions with the unique needs of autistic children can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. To help families celebrate Chinese New Year in a way that’s enjoyable for everyone, here are 5 practical tips for navigating the festive season with autistic children:

How to Prepare Your Child with Autism for Chinese New Year

Preparing your child with autism for Chinese New Year can help them feel more comfortable and reduce anxiety during the festivities. The celebrations often involve sensory-rich activities like visiting relatives, receiving red envelopes, and attending family meals, which may feel overwhelming for children on the autism spectrum.

Start by using social stories, visual schedules, or books to explain common traditions and activities. Introducing these concepts in advance can help your child understand what to expect. Practicing simple greetings, such as “Gong Hei Fat Choi,” can also help ease their anxiety around social interactions.

Since Chinese New Year often disrupts regular routines, which can be particularly challenging for children with autism, creating a visual calendar to outline upcoming events can provide clarity and reassurance. However, it’s important to remain flexible and allow for breaks or quiet moments if your child feels overwhelmed. Giving them time to recharge can make the celebrations more manageable and enjoyable for everyone.

By preparing in advance and considering your child’s unique needs, you can help them navigate Chinese New Year with greater ease and comfort.

Managing Sensory Overload During Chinese New Year for Children with Autism

Chinese New Year celebrations can be overwhelming with bright decorations, loud firecrackers, and crowded gatherings. Prepare sensory aids like noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or fidget toys to help your child manage overstimulation. Whenever possible, identify quiet spaces at each location where your child can take a break if needed.

Bring along comforting items that your child enjoys, such as their favorite snacks, toys, or a device with calming activities. Familiar objects can provide a sense of security and help your child feel more at ease in unfamiliar or busy environments.

How to Communicate Your Child's Autism Needs to Family During Chinese New Year

In traditional Asian families, there are often strong expectations for children to greet elders, try certain foods, and fully engage in gatherings. While openly explaining autism to everyone may not feel feasible, you can subtly set expectations by sharing your child’s preferences and challenges with close family members.

For instance, you might mention that your child could feel shy or overwhelmed in noisy settings or that they may need occasional breaks. Instead of challenging traditions directly, focus on gently advocating for your child’s needs in a way that respects family dynamics. Small, gradual steps toward raising awareness can make a difference, even if full understanding takes time.

Creating an Exit Strategy for Children with Autism During Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year celebrations can be overwhelming, especially for children with autism. Plan ahead for moments when your child may need a break. You can politely excuse yourself by saying your child needs some quiet time. If possible, identify a calm, quiet space at the gathering or step outside to give your child an opportunity to recharge and self-regulate.

If leaving early becomes necessary, you can simply mention that you need to tend to your child, without offering detailed explanations. Having a discreet plan in place can help you remain calm and feel more in control during the event.