As the year winds down, many of us instinctively slow our pace. We gather around fuller tables, pull out long-held traditions, and carve out moments — sometimes small, sometimes sacred — to simply be with the people who matter most. This season has a way of reminding us that togetherness isn’t just comforting; it’s essential.
There’s actually good science behind that feeling. Research shows that strong social connections are linked to better emotional well-being, resilience, and overall health for people of all ages and abilities (1). And during the holidays — when routines shift and emotions run high — those connections can be grounding in a way nothing else is.
At Waves, togetherness is more than a seasonal theme. It shapes how we partner with families, how we support adults, and how we show up for one another every single day.
Early Learning: Making Space for Inclusive, Joyful Traditions
The holidays can be exciting, chaotic, and everything in between for young children. For families navigating developmental milestones, the pressure to make the season “perfect” can feel heavy — but meaningful traditions don’t have to be elaborate. In fact, research suggests that predictable, shared family rituals can strengthen a child’s sense of security and belonging (2).
In Waves’ Early Learning program, we walk alongside families during moments like these. Our focus on natural environments means we’re supporting children right where holiday memories are actually made — at kitchen tables covered in craft supplies, in living rooms full of cousins, and in parks where kids run off extra December energy.
This time of year is an opportunity to create celebrations that honor each child’s unique needs. That might look like:
- Preparing siblings and relatives for how a child prefers to engage
- Using visual schedules to make gatherings feel less overwhelming
- Choosing sensory-friendly holiday activities
- Giving children space to enter traditions at their own pace
The goal isn’t to force a picture-perfect moment — it’s to build traditions where every child feels welcomed, supported, and able to participate in a way that’s truly theirs.
Adult Services: Strengthening Community Through Shared Moments
For the adults supported through Waves, connection doesn’t start and end with the holiday season — it’s woven into everyday life.
Whether it’s cooking together, volunteering in the community, or celebrating milestones at the day programs in Fairview and Franklin, there’s a rhythm of togetherness that carries through the entire year. And that matters. Adults with strong community ties experience higher levels of confidence, independence, and emotional well-being (3).
During the holidays, these moments take on even more meaning. Shared celebrations, gift exchanges, outings, and group traditions remind the people we support that they are part of something bigger — a community that sees them, values them, and shows up for them.
And honestly, it’s a good reminder for all of us. Connection doesn’t require big gestures. Sometimes it’s sitting beside someone during a craft, laughing over hot chocolate, or taking a walk together after a long week. These ordinary moments become the memory-makers.
Closing the Year With Gratitude
As we approach the end of 2025, we’re grateful for every family, every individual, every staff member, and every community partner who makes up the Waves community. You’ve helped us build a year filled with growth, encouragement, and connection — and we’re excited to carry that momentum into the new year.
Here’s to togetherness. Here’s to reflection. And here’s to the shared moments that make this season so meaningful.