The festive season is here—a time to celebrate, connect with loved ones, and enjoy the magic of Christmas! For NDIS participants, this season can be exciting and challenging, but with some planning and the proper support, you can ensure your holidays are accessible, inclusive, and full of joy.
Whether decorating your home, attending festive events, or creating memorable moments with family and friends, NDIS supports help make your holiday season stress-free and special.
Let’s dive into tips, ideas, and strategies to make this Christmas unforgettable!
Your Accessible Christmas Checklist
Planning ahead is the key to a smooth and enjoyable festive season. Use this handy checklist to get started:
🎄 Plan Together
Discuss your holiday goals with your support worker or facilitator. Identify the activities and events you’d like to participate in and create a plan to make them happen.
🎁 Use Your NDIS Supports
Allocate funding strategically for transport, extra support hours, or assistive technology to simplify holiday tasks and enhance accessibility.
🕒 Organise Your Schedule
Use a visual calendar or planner to map out your activities. This helps avoid scheduling conflicts and reduces feelings of being overwhelmed.
🎅 Check for Holiday Closures
Book essential services like transport or support workers early, as many services may have limited availability during the festive season.
Fun and Festive Ideas for an Inclusive Christmas
The holidays are a time for joy, creativity, and connection. Here are some accessible and engaging activities to make your Christmas magical:
- Accessible Christmas Decorations
Decorating your space can be a fun way to get into the holiday spirit. Consider these accessibility-friendly tips:
- Tactile Ornaments: Choose sensory-friendly decorations with soft textures or vibrant colours for added engagement.
- Adjustable Lighting: Opt for LED lights with dimmer controls to prevent overstimulation.
- Easy-Access Setups: Arrange decorations at wheelchair-friendly heights or in open spaces for improved mobility.
- Enjoy At-Home Festive Activities
Staying in doesn’t mean missing out. These home-based activities are perfect for a relaxed and inclusive holiday:
- DIY Holiday Crafts: Create paper snowflakes, personalised holiday cards, or decorations together. It’s a great way to boost creativity and fine motor skills.
- Festive Baking: Try making gingerbread cookies, mince pies, or other treats. It’s a delicious way to spend quality time.
- Movie Nights: Settle in for a Christmas classic with subtitles or audio descriptions for an inclusive experience.
- Explore Local Accessible Events
Your community offers a variety of festive activities. Look out for these accessible options:
- Sensory-Friendly Carols: Enjoy carols with reduced lighting and sound for a calm, welcoming environment.
- Accessible Holiday Markets: Many markets now feature ramps and quiet zones, making navigating easier.
- Light Displays: Drive-through light shows are a great way to enjoy the magic of Christmas without the crowds.
Find accessible events by checking out our Facebook page and following so you don’t miss our next event.
How NDIS Supports Can Simplify Your Holidays
Your NDIS plan is designed to support your goals, even during the festive season. Here are some ways you can use it to make Christmas easier and more enjoyable:
- Transport: Book accessible transport to attend events, visit family, or enjoy local attractions.
- Extra Support Hours: Hire a support worker to assist with holiday preparations like shopping, decorating, or attending events.
- Assistive Technology: Invest in adaptive tools, such as mobility aids or accessible kitchen gadgets, to simplify holiday tasks.
Tips to Stay Stress-Free During the Festive Season
Christmas should be a time of joy—not stress. Use these tips to keep your holidays relaxed and enjoyable:
- Schedule Rest Breaks: Allow time between activities to recharge and avoid burnout.
- Focus on Wellbeing: If the holidays feel overwhelming, contact your support worker or mental health services for assistance.
- Keep It Simple: Sometimes, the simplest plans lead to the most meaningful celebrations.
Example Festive Schedule
Planning your week can make the holiday season more manageable. Here’s a sample schedule for inspiration:
- Monday: Decorate your space and create holiday cards.
- Tuesday: Attend a sensory-friendly carol event or local market.
- Wednesday: Bake festive treats like cookies or mince pies.
- Thursday: Relax with a movie night featuring your favourite Christmas classics.
Friday (Christmas Eve): Finalise preparations and enjoy a quiet evening with loved ones.
Making This Christmas Memorable and Accessible
With the right planning, creativity, and support, Christmas can be an inclusive and magical experience for everyone. At AVAS, we’re here to help you make the most of your festive season with tailored support that aligns with your NDIS goals.
Whether decorating, celebrating with family, or enjoying quiet moments of holiday cheer, your NDIS plan can empower you to have the Christmas you envision.
Need assistance with your holiday plans? Contact your NDIS facilitator today to explore your options.
From all of us at AVAS, we wish you a joyful, stress-free, and inclusive Christmas! 🎄
