Variety Child Learning Center Offers Tips for Surviving the Holidays

Holidays can be fun and joyous for most children, yet unpredictable and stressful, too, especially for children with diverse learning needs, according to Maria Freeman, LCSW, Director of Social Work at Variety Child Learning Center. The nonprofit organization fosters the development, education and inclusion of children who require specialized services. “Holiday gatherings can bring on sensory overload for many children, but it is amplified among children with neurodiverse abilities,” stated Ms. Freeman. “To help parents of children with diverse learning needs, Variety is offering the following tips to help survive the upcoming holidays to make sure they are stress-free and full of joy and will create warm memories that will last forever,” added Stacey Trotti, LCSW, Assistant Director of Family Services at Variety.

• Plan and discuss with your child what will happen during holiday gatherings. Visual aids, such as photos, coupled with social stories, can be helpful.
• Communicate with family and guests so they understand your child’s needs, helping prevent potential events while creating an inclusive environment.
• Allow your children to participate in meal planning when possible, to ensure their favorite foods are available, reducing stress and promoting comfort.
• Ensure that your child has their comfort items/toys, allow for sensory breaks, and, if available, offer a quiet area for your child to decompress as needed.

Variety operates five schools on Long Island including facilities in Levittown and Syosset in Nassau County, and its newest school in East Northport in Suffolk County, which began providing specialized educational service for children in September 2025.

About Variety Child Learning Center
Variety Child Learning Center (Variety) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that fosters the development, education and inclusion of children who require specialized services. Variety offers programs at four Long Island preschool-based locations, as well as in the home and community. Chartered by the New York State Board of Regents, and regulated by the State Education Department, the Department of Health, and the Office of Children and Family Services, Variety provides a comprehensive range of programs and services that meet the individual educational, therapeutic and social-emotional needs of children with and without disabilities. Programs include early intervention, and preschool and universal pre-K, with evaluations offered for supportive services/ therapies, childcare, and family support. All aspects of a child’s development—from six weeks through eight years of age—are addressed. Variety’s programs are led by compassionate and dedicated professionals, including special education teachers; social workers and psychologists; speech, physical and occupational therapists; and an experienced administrative and executive leadership team. For more information, visit www.varietyclc.org, or call 516-921-7171.