For many neurodivergent families, Christmas isn’t the most wonderful time of the year - it’s the most overwhelming. In this episode, Mark and Belle unpack the chaos, anxiety and sensory overload that come with Christmas traditions and expectations.
From unpredictable routines to social obligations and flashing lights, they reflect on what makes the festive season so tough for autistic, ADHD and PDA kids - and what parents can do to survive it.
Belle shares practical ideas and honest moments from her own family’s experience, while Mark reveals the emotional toll of trying to make Christmas magical when it feels like everything is working against you.
Whether you’re looking for an autism parenting podcast that acknowledges the reality of holidays or a PDA parenting podcast that speaks to your December dread, this one’s for you.
Links to stuff we mention in this episode
Polar Express: https://ukfamilytravel.com/polar-express-train-ride-locations-in-the-uk/
Preston Manor Father Christmas: https://brightonmuseums.org.uk/event/father-christmas/
Amazing Maids: https://www.amazingmaidssussex.com/
Wakehurst "Glow Wild" event: https://www.kew.org/wakehurst/whats-on/glow-wild-2023
Cheese knife: https://www.robertwelch.com/products/radford-bright-cheese-knife
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Credits
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/
