Navigating the Holiday Season: Challenges for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities in Group Homes and How Caregivers Can Help

The holiday season, while often regarded as a time of joy, connection, and celebration, can be an extraordinarily challenging period for individuals with developmental disabilities living in group homes. Amid the cheerful decorations, festive gatherings, and societal expectations for happiness, there is an underlying reality that this time of year can cause immense stress and discomfort for many people in this community. Behavioural challenges often increase dramatically during the holidays as individuals struggle to cope with an overload of changes, stressors, and emotions. Caregivers and support staff play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate this difficult time. By understanding the unique stressors the holiday season brings, and by implementing proactive, person-centered strategies, caregivers can help create a more manageable and positive experience for those in their care.

The Positive Systems Approach (PSA), as outlined by Dr. Bob Carey and Terry Kirkpatrick (“Managing Disruptive Behaviours with a Positive Systems Approach” – available on Amazon), offers an evidence-based framework that is ideally suited to assist individuals with developmental disabilities in managing their stress and behaviours, especially during challenging times like the holiday season. PSA focuses on understanding the root causes of behavioural challenges, building meaningful relationships, and creating supportive environments that empower individuals.

The approach prioritizes four key elements that align perfectly with the unique needs of supporting individuals in group homes during the holiday season:

1.        Understanding the Why Behind the Behaviour

At the core of the Positive Systems Approach is the recognition that all behaviour is a form of communication. During the holidays, individuals with developmental disabilities may display increased behavioural challenges as they struggle to cope with sensory overload, routine disruptions, or emotional triggers.

• PSA encourages caregivers and staff to ask, “What is this behaviour telling me?” rather than simply reacting to it.

• By identifying the specific stressors—such as loud music, unfamiliar visitors, or a change in meal times—caregivers can proactively reduce triggers and better support individuals.

For example, if an individual becomes agitated during a holiday meal, PSA prompts staff to consider environmental factors (e.g., noise, seating arrangement) and implement solutions like providing a quieter eating space or modifying the schedule.

2. Focusing on Positive, Proactive Supports

PSA emphasizes creating proactive strategies to help individuals feel safe, secure, and calm. This is particularly relevant during the holiday season when changes can lead to anxiety.

• Proactive Planning: Caregivers can use PSA principles to anticipate individuals’ challenges and prepare supportive environments. For example:

  • Gradually introducing decorations and explaining their purpose in advance.

  • Providing individuals with sensory tools, like noise-canceling headphones or weighted blankets, to manage overstimulation.

• Positive Reinforcement: PSA promotes the use of positive feedback and rewards for individuals who engage in calming activities or successfully navigate stressful events. Small celebrations of success, like verbal praise or a favorite activity, help build confidence and reduce anxiety.

3. Building Strong Relationships and Trust

Trust and connection are essential elements of PSA, as meaningful relationships create a foundation of emotional security. During the holidays, caregivers can focus on nurturing these relationships to help individuals feel understood, valued, and supported.

• Active Listening: Caregivers trained in PSA take time to listen and validate individuals’ feelings, even if they cannot fully articulate their frustrations. Offering a calm, empathetic presence reassures individuals that their needs matter.

• Individualized Support: Recognizing that every individual experiences stress differently, PSA encourages caregivers to tailor their approach to each person. For instance, one individual may benefit from extra one-on-one time, while another may prefer a quiet space away from group activities.

The emphasis on trust ensures that even when behavioural challenges arise, individuals feel supported rather than punished or misunderstood.

4. Creating a Supportive Environment for Long-Term Success

Positive Systems Approach does not focus solely on managing behaviours in the moment—it seeks to build an environment where individuals can thrive. During the holiday season, this means:

• Establishing clear, visual expectations for holiday events, helping individuals know what to expect.

• Balancing festive activities with familiar routines to provide stability.

• Offering stress-relief tools and teaching coping mechanisms, like deep breathing, sensory breaks, or engaging in preferred activities.

By implementing PSA principles, group homes can transform the holiday season into a positive experience rather than a stressful one. Individuals learn to trust their environment, recognize safe ways to manage their stress, and feel empowered to engage in celebrations at their own pace.

Factors Specific to the Holiday Season to Consider:

For individuals with developmental disabilities—including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, and other cognitive challenges—the Holiday season can bring a range of overwhelming stimuli and changes to routine. This disruption can exacerbate difficulties in processing information, managing sensory input, and handling emotions. Here are some key challenges they face during this time:

1. Disruption of Routine

Many individuals with developmental disabilities rely heavily on structure and predictability to feel safe and comfortable in their environment. Group homes typically provide a consistent daily routine, but the Holiday season often disrupts this sense of stability. Holiday parties, staff scheduling changes, trips to visit family, or changes in meal and sleep routines can create significant anxiety.

For instance, a group home might host a holiday dinner one evening, replacing the usual evening activities. What might seem like a minor disruption to most people can feel catastrophic to someone who depends on predictability to cope with the world. Even small changes, such as holiday-themed music being played in the common areas or staff wearing Santa hats, can be enough to cause stress.

2.        Sensory Overload

The Holiday season is full of sensory triggers—flashing lights, loud music, crowded rooms, and overwhelming decorations. For individuals with heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, these changes can be unbearable. Holiday carols blasting from speakers, crowded family gatherings, or the bright colors of Holiday lights might seem festive to most but can be deeply distressing to individuals who process sensory input differently.

People with autism, for example, may struggle with the noise and visual overstimulation that comes with group celebrations or decorations. This overload can lead to behavioural challenges, such as meltdowns, withdrawal, or self-injurious behaviours as a way to cope with the discomfort.

3. Heightened Emotional Expectations

The holiday season carries an unspoken expectation that everyone should be happy, excited, and eager to celebrate. For individuals with developmental disabilities, the pressure to conform to these societal norms can be confusing and frustrating. They may not understand why everyone is acting differently or why they are expected to participate in activities they find stressful or uninteresting.

This emotional disconnect can create frustration, anxiety, and sadness. For example, being unable to communicate their discomfort or disinterest in holiday activities might cause behavioural outbursts.

4. Separation From Family or Loved Ones

For many individuals living in group homes, the Holiday season can intensify feelings of loneliness or longing for family. While some individuals may be able to visit family members during the holidays, others may not have close family connections or the ability to travel. Watching others enjoy visits or gifts can magnify feelings of isolation and abandonment.

In some cases, family visits themselves can be stressful. Changes to the environment, long car rides, or the emotional complexities of being around family can cause emotional and behavioural challenges. Returning to the group home after a short, emotional visit can also trigger feelings of confusion or sadness.

5. Social Challenges

Holiday gatherings often require increased social interaction, which can be daunting for individuals with developmental disabilities. Group activities like Holiday parties may involve unfamiliar people, loud conversations, or unwelcome physical contact (such as hugs). For someone who struggles with social communication, these expectations can cause significant anxiety and behavioural responses.

Understanding the Increase in Behavioural Challenges During the Holiday Season

Given the factors described above, it is not surprising that the holiday season often brings an increase in behavioural challenges for individuals living in group homes. These behaviours, which can include meltdowns, aggression, withdrawal, self-injurious actions, or refusal to participate, are often a direct response to stress, sensory overload, or emotional confusion.

It is essential for caregivers to understand that these behaviours are not deliberate or meant to cause disruption. Rather, they are a form of communication and coping mechanism for individuals who may not have the tools to express their discomfort in other ways.

For example:

• A person experiencing sensory overload at a crowded holiday party may cover their ears, scream, or lash out to escape the situation.

• Someone who feels confused or sad about being away from family might withdraw, refuse to engage, or cry uncontrollably.

• A individual whose routine has been disrupted may become agitated or exhibit repetitive behaviours in an attempt to self-soothe.

Recognizing the root cause of these behaviours is the first step in providing compassionate, effective support.

How Caregivers and Support Staff Can Help During the Holiday Season

Caregivers and support staff play a vital role in helping individuals with developmental disabilities navigate the challenges of the holiday season. By being proactive, patient, and person-centered, they can reduce stress and create a more positive experience for those in their care. Below are practical strategies for caregivers to consider:

1. Maintain Routine as Much as Possible

While some disruptions are unavoidable, caregivers should strive to maintain as much consistency as possible. Sticking to familiar mealtimes, bedtime routines, and daily schedules can provide a sense of stability and comfort.

• If a holiday event is planned, prepare individuals ahead of time by explaining the changes to the schedule and what to expect.

• Use visual schedules, calendars, or social stories to communicate upcoming changes in an accessible way.

• If decorations are being added to the group home, do so gradually and allow individuals to be part of the process if they are comfortable.

2. Create Calm, Sensory-Friendly Spaces

Providing a quiet, calm space where individuals can retreat during stressful times is essential. This space should be free from bright lights, loud music, and overwhelming decorations.

• Equip the space with calming items like soft blankets, noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or sensory tools.

• Allow individuals to retreat to this space when they feel overwhelmed or overstimulated without judgment.

• Consider dimming lights, reducing noise levels, or playing soft, calming music during the holidays.

3. Prepare and Support Individuals for Social Events

Social gatherings can be challenging, so preparation and support are key:

• Offer clear explanations about what will happen at an event, who will be there, and what activities are planned.

• Provide options for participation—no one should be forced to join if they are uncomfortable.

• Assign a caregiver or staff member to be a “support buddy” for individuals who may need extra reassurance or help during the event.

• Use social stories or role-playing to help individuals understand expectations and practice coping strategies.

4. Manage Sensory Input

To reduce sensory overload:

• Keep holiday decorations simple and limit flashing lights or noisy ornaments.

• Allow individuals to use sensory tools, like weighted blankets or chewable jewelry, during group activities.

• Offer sensory breaks during events where individuals can step away to reset.

5. Acknowledge and Validate Emotions

It is important to validate the feelings of individuals who are struggling during the holidays. Encourage open communication, even if it is non-verbal, and respond with empathy.

• Let individuals know it is okay to feel sad, angry, or anxious.

• Use simple, clear language to help them label and understand their emotions.

• Provide comforting reassurance that staff are there to support them through difficult moments.

6. Promote Meaningful, Individualized Holiday Activities

Not everyone enjoys traditional holiday activities, so it is important to offer options that are meaningful and enjoyable to each individual.

• Ask individuals about their preferences for activities. Some may prefer watching a favorite movie, baking cookies, or engaging in a quiet craft instead of attending a group party.

• Create a calm, inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable celebrating in their own way.

• For individuals who miss family members, consider video calls, letter writing, or other ways to maintain connections.

7. Support Staff and Caregiver Well-Being

Caregivers themselves can experience increased stress during the holidays, which may impact their ability to provide effective support. Group homes should ensure that staff receive adequate breaks, emotional support, and guidance during this challenging time.

Conclusion

Positive Systems Approach stands out because it is not reactive but preventative, person-centered, and empathetic. It equips caregivers with the tools to:

• Proactively address the stressors of the holiday season.

• Respond to behaviours with understanding rather than frustration.

• Foster a sense of safety, inclusion, and calm.

By applying PSA strategies, group homes can reduce the frequency and intensity of behavioural challenges while ensuring that the holidays remain an opportunity for joy, connection, and comfort for everyone.  Navigating the holiday season can be uniquely difficult for individuals with developmental disabilities living in group homes. With stressors ranging from sensory overload to emotional triggers, the increase in behavioural challenges during this time is understandable. However, through thoughtful strategies—such as maintaining routines, creating sensory-friendly spaces, and implementing frameworks like the Positive Systems Approach—caregivers can help individuals feel supported and empowered.  Caregivers and support staff play a critical role in easing these difficulties. By maintaining routines, creating calm spaces, preparing individuals for social events, and offering individualized support, they can help create a more manageable and meaningful holiday season. Above all, it is essential to approach this time of year with empathy, patience, and understanding—recognizing that every individual deserves to experience the holidays in a way that respects their needs, preferences, and comfort.  Through thoughtful planning and compassionate care, caregivers can transform the Holiday season from a source of stress into an opportunity for connection, inclusion, and gentle celebration for individuals in group homes.

The holidays do not have to be a time of struggle; with empathy, patience, and proactive support, group homes can create an environment where individuals experience comfort, connection, and calm, ensuring that the spirit of the season is accessible to all.

To learn more about the Positive Systems Approach, visit www.drbobcarey.com.