Autism, Fireworks and the Fourth of July

Summer is jam-packed with fun and exciting things to do, including the biggest birthday celebration ever, the Fourth of July! But while many of us look forward to the fairs and fireworks that happen all over the country, children on the autism spectrum can have difficulty enjoying the holiday.

“Difficulty,” however, doesn’t mean a child with sensory sensitivities can’t have a blast on the Fourth. By taking consideration of the possible challenges beforehand, you and your little firecracker can have an amazing experience.

Getting Ready For The Big Event

Take some time to sit down with your child and explain the day’s special events. Talk about why we celebrate the Fourth and how. Give her a small flag to wave around, watch a few fireworks videos online, and tell her about the delicious foods and treats they’ll smell and taste. If you’re planning on going to a large event, let your child know there’s going to be crowds of people there to have a lot of fun just like she is.

Of course, no matter how much fun there is to be had, new sensory experiences in an unfamiliar place always run the risk of over stimulating your child. Whether you’re attending a large community celebration or a backyard gathering of neighbors and friends, make sure your child knows how to tell you when it’s time to leave or take a break and have a plan for making that happen.

Watch From A Distance

The intensity of a fireworks display is one thing; there are also crowds of people, lots of other noises, and a low-level of chaos pretty much everywhere. This can present a huge sensory challenge even before the main event begins.

When choosing a place to sit and enjoy the fireworks, pick a spot on the outskirts of the crowd or even away from it entirely. This will keep your child from getting too overwhelmed and you won’t have to stumble your way through a sea of people if you have to make a quick exit. Also keep in mind that the further away you sit, the less intense the sound of the explosions will be. Have some snacks, games or other activities on hand to help distract them from a long wait if you’re choosing a spot early in the evening, too.

Reduce The Sounds Of The Season

The Fourth of July is nearly synonymous with BANGS, BOOMS and high-pitched whistles that can instantly over stimulate a child with sensory issues. Even from far away, the unfamiliar sounds can cause fear and stress levels to rise in your child.

No matter where you’re sitting, bring along some added ear and hearing protection. and a media player playing her favorite music during the display could also provide some extra calming if needed.

There’s Always Next Year

The most important thing to consider about attending any large Fourth of July celebration is the comfort level of the child. As much as you may want to create the same special memories you have of firework displays from your childhood, that may not be possible with a child with advanced or even mild sensory issues.

Be honest with yourself about whether your child is ready for things like large firework displays and big chaotic crowds. If you find yourself doubting that he can handle the event, skip it and create your own special celebration at home. Build your own pretend rockets, play in some patriotic pasta or participate in making some other craft from our. Borrow a digital projector and project a televised fireworks display on a sheet in your backyard at a child-acceptable volume. After all, there’s no one way to celebrate the Fourth, and chances are pretty good that there will be another fireworks display around this time next year and for many years to come.