In this blog we are going to look at pre-Christmas preparations from the points of view of a non-autistic person and an autistic person. We will look at things like how organised we are, things we like, and things we do not like.

Non-Autistic Person’s Perspective

Making a list of things to do that you know will never be fully completed because as you tick each successful achievement off the list it gets replaced with another task. Spending time deciding whether to send cards to people you have had absolutely no contact from in over a year. The cards are then posted on the first of December with a Christmas stamp on them. There then comes the problem of trying to fathom out who Aunty Jess is and if you still have her address.

Deciding whether to buy a box of biscuits for your neighbour or a tin of Celebrations.

Decorating the tree with decorations that have been bought recently as well as keeping older ones that have memories attached to them. You also want to make sure your Christmas lights are the best in the street….

Thoroughly enjoy listening to other people’s troubles over Christmas. It is nice wishing shop keepers, café providers and delivery guys a happy Christmas with a smile on your face (or a smirk maybe).

Making sure you are seen to be out there with parties and Christmas lights.

Autistic Person’s Perspective

I like a traditional Christmas with a red, gold, and green colour scheme. I am not a fan of the pink Christmas trees with handbag and shoe decorations hanging off it.

The smell of Christmas baking as you make mince pies, shortbread, biscuits, and a homemade loaf of bread.

The joy of writing and sending Christmas cards to family members, friends, and neighbours. They do not have to send cards in return.

Listening to the Salvation Army play Christmas carols whilst doing the Christmas shopping.

Avoiding parties because of balloons, champagne corks popping, party poppers, loud music and too much going on at once causing sensory overload.

I enjoy the religious side of Christmas and the feeling of community it can bring. It is nice to attend carols by candlelight service at the church to sing traditional carols.

Conclusion

Looking at the two perspectives the non-autistic person’s perspective focusses more on other people and trying to please them. The autistic perspective gives the impression of being more set in their ways and not worrying about other people’s opinion. They do whatever makes them happy at Christmas.

Wrap Up

Everyone has a different idea of how the build up to Christmas should be, so do whatever makes it enjoyable and non-stressful. Let’s spread joy and happiness at this stressful time of year.

By Nicola Martin & Sue Pigott