Holiday Challenges: Prepare for Large Gatherings

Large family gatherings during the holidays can be overwhelming for anyone, especially for individuals with communication challenges. Noise, multiple conversations, and new environments can create barriers to effective social communication. Speech therapists can help families prepare for these situations by offering strategies to support communication and reduce stress. Creating strategies for specific needs can make these gatherings more enjoyable and successful for everyone involved (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), 2023).

1. Social Scripts

Social scripts provide a helpful framework for navigating conversations in large groups. ASHA recommends practicing common phrases or responses in advance, such as greetings, asking questions, or answering about school, work, or hobbies (ASHA, 2023). Rehearsing phrases like, “Hi! How have you been?” or “My favorite subject in school is math,” can help confidence and make communication smoother.

2. Visual Supports

For individuals who benefit from visual aids, ASHA suggests creating a communication card or visual schedule. A card listing conversation starters or topics can help initiate interactions, while a schedule outlining the event can address anxiety by setting expectations (ASHA, 2023). For younger children, pictures of family members with names can reinforce recognition and help them engage socially.

3. Small Group Conversations

Large groups can be overstimulating. ASHA advises encouraging smaller, quieter conversations in less crowded areas (ASHA, 2023). This setting allows individuals to focus more easily and reduces the pressure of multitasking during communication exchanges.

4. Active Listening Skills

Active listening involves maintaining eye contact, nodding, and giving appropriate verbal cues like “I see” or “That’s interesting.” It's important to practice these skills ahead of time to help to engage more effectively in group settings (ASHA, 2023).

5. Breaks for Sensory Overload

Family gatherings can be overwhelming, especially for individuals with sensory sensitivities or social anxiety. ASHA recommends planning quiet break areas where individuals can decompress before rejoining the group (ASHA, 2023). Letting them know in advance that breaks are OK can reduce stress and improve overall participation.

References:

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (2023). Social Communication Disorders.