Top tips for Christmas shopping with someone who has autism

The Christmas season is full of excitement but can also feel overwhelming, especially for those with autism.

Shopping at this time of year often means big crowds, bright lights, loud sounds, and an array of new sensations. However, with a bit of planning and the right approach, Christmas shopping can be a more positive experience.

*Names have been changed for anonymity purposes.

We spoke with Catherine, whose son Bailey has autism, and she shared her top tips on how she prepares for Christmas shopping with Bailey.

It’s important to remember that autism is a wide spectrum, so everyone experiences it differently, and what works for us may not work for everyone.

1. Plan with a Shopping List

Why it helps: I find that having a clear list helps us stay focused and reduces stress by limiting our time in shops.

How to do it: Before we leave, I make a detailed list of everything we need. I like to involve Bailey in creating the list, so he feels part of the plan – it really helps him know what to expect.

2. Shop at quieter times of day

Why it helps: Busy stores can quickly become overwhelming, so quieter times are key.

How to do it: Many shops now offer quiet hours, which I love to take advantage of. I also try to plan our trips for early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s less crowded, which makes a big difference for Bailey.

3. Create a visual schedule

Why it helps: Bailey does so much better when he knows what’s coming next, so visual schedules are essential.

How to do it: I use pictures or a written list to outline each step of our trip, like driving to the shopping centre, going to specific stores, taking breaks, and heading home. I tick things off as we go, which reassures Bailey and helps him stay calm.

4. Bring sensory tools

Why it helps: Bringing along familiar items helps Bailey stay comfortable, even in busier or noisier places.

How to do it: I pack things like noisecancelling headphones, sunglasses and fidget toys. I let Bailey choose which items he wants to bring, so he has something comforting on hand when he needs it.

5. Set realistic goals

Why it helps: Shorter trips with smaller goals make shopping more manageable for us both.

How to do it: I aim to accomplish just a few things on each trip. If possible, I break up our shopping over multiple short outings instead of doing it all in one go, this helps to prevent Bailey from feeling overwhelmed and allows me to be flexible if we need to leave early.

6. Take regular breaks

Why it helps: Shopping can be tiring for Bailey, so regular breaks are a must.

How to do it: I plan breaks into our trip where we find a quiet spot to relax, have a snack, and talk about how things are going. It helps us recharge and makes the trip feel less intense.

7. Practice coping strategies

Why it helps: Practising coping techniques beforehand helps Bailey handle any difficult moments that may come up.

How to do it: We practise things like deep breathing or visualisation at home before we head out. During the trip, I remind Bailey of these strategies if he’s feeling stressed –they help him feel more in control.

8. Have a quick exit plan

Why it helps: Knowing that we can leave if things get too overwhelming keeps Bailey calm.

How to do it: I make sure Bailey knows it’s okay to cut the trip short if he needs to. Just having that option available reassures him and makes him feel safer.

With these little adjustments, we’ve found that Christmas shopping can be a more positive experience for both of us. It takes a bit of planning, but it’s always worth it! Just remember that everyone with autism is different, so it’s essential to tailor these tips to meet the unique needs of your loved one.