Preparing for Christmas, part 1

In this episode, Rachel and Sarah from the PDA Society begins a timely conversation about Christmas, and how the build-up can feel exciting, intense, and sometimes overwhelming for PDA children, young people, and their families.

We explore why this season can bring extra demands, changes in routine, sensory overload and social expectations, all of which can increase anxiety for PDAers. We’ll talk through the early signs that Christmas is starting to feel “too much”, and how planning ahead with a low demand, relationship-led approach can help.

This first part focuses on understanding what makes Christmas challenging in the first place, and how shifting expectations, simplifying plans and prioritising emotional safety can lay the groundwork for a calmer festive period.

Key Themes 

• Why Christmas can feel overwhelming for PDA learners and families
• The impact of increased demands, uncertainty and sensory load
• Noticing early signs of anxiety and overload
• Reducing pressure through flexible planning
• Prioritising emotional safety and connection over tradition