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keywords:

neurodivergent, Christmas, parenting, boundaries, self-compassion, sensory overload, holiday tips, family traditions, mental health, positivity, AuDHD

Summary

In this episode, Jenny discusses how neurodivergent individuals and parents can navigate the overwhelming festive season. She shares personal experiences and practical tips on setting boundaries, managing sensory overload, and prioritizing self-compassion. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable environment, doing Christmas in a way that suits individual families, and planning ahead to ensure a joyful holiday experience. Jenny encourages listeners to let go of societal expectations and focus on what truly matters during the festive season.takeaways

• The festive season can be overwhelming for neurodivergent individuals.
• Setting boundaries and saying no is crucial for mental well-being.
• Self-compassion is essential for navigating holiday stress.
• Creating a comfortable environment helps manage sensory overload.
• It's okay to ditch traditional holiday practices that don't work for your family.
• Planning ahead can alleviate stress during the holiday season.
• Quality time with family is more important than quantity.
• Bring sensory tools and safe snacks to manage expectations.
• You are allowed to have your own needs met during the holidays.
• Letting go of others' opinions can lead to a more enjoyable Christmas.

• Surviving the Holidays: A Neurodivergent Perspective
• Reclaiming Christmas: Tips for Neurodivergent Families
• Boundaries and Joy: Navigating the Festive Season

• "No is a complete sentence."
• "You are allowed to say no."
• "Self-compassion is a game changer."
• "You are allowed to have needs."
• "Ditch the traditions, create your own."
• "Quality over quantity in family visits."
• "You do what works for you."

Chapters

00:00 Navigating the Festive Season as Neurodivergent Parents

03:13 Overcoming Overwhelm: Strategies for a Joyful Christmas

06:10 Setting Boundaries: The Power of Saying No

08:59 Creating a Comfortable Environment: Sensory Considerations

11:51 Self-Compassion and Meeting Your Own Needs

15:13 Doing Christmas Your Way: Embracing Individual Traditions

18:05 Planning Ahead: The Importance of Preparation

20:52 Quality Over Quantity: Redefining Family Visits

24:08 Recap and Final Thoughts: Embracing Your Christmas