Photo Credit: Photo by Drazen Zigic on iStock

At Lake Michigan Academy (LMA), we believe that every child who learns and thinks differently deserves a holiday season filled with joy. Understanding the unique challenges that children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often face during this time is the first step in making that happen.

Here are three of the most common holiday hurdles and how you can support your child through them:

1. Disrupted Routines and Transitions

Kids with ADHD do best when their days are predictable. But during the holidays, everything shifts – school’s out, routines change, bedtime gets later, and there’s often travel or new places to adjust to.

These disruptions can throw off focus, increase restlessness, or heighten frustration. At LMA, we encourage families to maintain as much routine as possible, even during breaks. Simple anchors, like consistent bedtimes or scheduled snack breaks, go a long way toward keeping a child grounded.

2. Sensory Overload and High-Energy Environments

Bright lights, crowded gatherings, and a packed holiday schedule can be a lot for any child —but especially for kids with ADHD. When there’s more noise, movement, and excitement than usual, it can feel like sensory overload. Many kids describe it simply as “too much happening at once.” It’s essential to give children permission to step away from high-energy situations and return when they’re ready, so try to identify a quiet “safe zone” at gatherings or events where they can take a break.

3. Social and Emotional Expectations

From extended family gatherings to gift exchanges and new routines, the social and emotional demands of the holidays can be extra challenging. Kids with ADHD might have a tough time waiting their turn, following lots of directions at once, or staying calm when plans change. Talking through what the holidays will look like ahead of time can really help. Walk them through the schedule, practice a few scenarios, and keep expectations realistic for everyone. A little preparation can ease stress and make the season more enjoyable for the whole family.

The holidays don’t have to feel harder just because your child learns or thinks differently. With a bit of planning, clear expectations, and some built-in flexibility, you can help them move through the season more smoothly and actually enjoy it with confidence and ease.rns or thinks differently. With a bit of

planning, clear expectations, and some built-in flexibility, you can help them move through the season

more smoothly and actually enjoy it with confidence and ease.