The Fourth of July is a day filled with festivities, fireworks and fun for many families. However, for children with sensory issues, it can be an overwhelming experience. The loud noises, bright lights and large crowds can trigger high levels of discomfort and anxiety. You can still enjoy this time with your family with some advance preparation. Here are some practical tips and recommendations to help your child navigate this exciting day.
Set Expectations
Before the big day, spend some time preparing your child for what to expect. Discuss the activities planned, such as parades, barbecues and fireworks. Use visual supports to give them an even clearer idea of what is coming up.
- Read social stories: Create a simple social story that outlines the day's events and what they might see and hear. This can help reduce anxiety by setting clear expectations.
- Watch videos: Have your child watch videos of fireworks on YouTube on a lower volume and then increase the volume to mimic what they might sound like.
- Communicate: Talk to your child about what they might be feeling as you are preparing for the challenges of the day. Use the Emoji Emotions Cards as a jumping off point if they have trouble identifying an emotion. Ask your child for coping strategies they think might work to involve them more and encourage self-regulation.
Tools to Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment
Ensure that your child has a safe space where they can retreat if things get too overwhelming at gatherings with family and friends. This could be a quiet room in your house or, if you’re not home, a designated area. Make sure to have sensory tools prepared that work for your child’s specific needs.
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Compression clothing
Clothes such as a Weighted Compression Vest provide deep pressure input that can help soothe your child’s nervous system during stressful situations. They can also wear the Hug Tee, for gentle compression throughout the day.
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Weighted friends
Many kids are soothed by a favorite stuffed animal. Adding weight to the plush softness provides even more comfort through the proprioceptive input. The Sloth Heavy Hugger has a “wearability" factor that makes it easy to bring along on July Fourth adventures. Pack the Mini Me Dressing Vest too for fidgety fun!
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Noise controllers
Fireworks and other loud celebrations common on July 4th can be particularly distressing for children with auditory sensitivities. Bringing a pair of Noise Reduction Headphones to dampen the noise can help your child feel less anxious, enabling them to better enjoy the festivities.
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Light blockers
The bright flashes of light during fireworks displays can make anyone flinch. Kids with sensory sensitivities to bright light may find this more dysregulating than others. Wearing sunglasses or a Denim Weighted Baseball Cap can reduce the light’s impact for your child.
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Calming fidgets
Have a variety of fidgets on hand to help your child relax and stay engaged throughout the day. These “fun to feel” fidgets are a great way to keep your child’s hands busy and their mind calm. Chewies can also be beneficial for kids who respond to oral sensory input. Choose chewelry if you’re worried about losing it while you’re out.
Plan for Breaks
Ensure that your child has regular breaks throughout the day. This can prevent sensory overload and give them time to decompress. Whether you’re home or away, review safe places to go for some quiet time. Designate a code word or signal for your child to let you know they need a break.
Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Kids who can recognize when they start to feel overwhelmed can use breathing exercises to try to calm their sensory system before it reaches a state of overwhelm. Shake a Calm Down Jar and watch the glitter slowly swirl as you take deep breaths. The Visual Cards for Self-Calming can show kids an action to help them relax. You can find more tips in our blog post on Mindfulness for Kids.
The best tool you have to help your child is to be supportive and understanding. Recognize their needs, validate their experience so that they feel safe and secure, and reassure them that you are always there for them.
With empathy and a little preparation you can help your sensory child enjoy the Fourth of July festivities. By creating a supportive and accommodating environment, you can ensure that the day is not only survivable but also pleasurable for your entire family. Remember, the goal is to make the celebration inclusive and fun for everyone. Happy Fourth of July!
For more helpful products, explore our range of calming toys and tools designed to support and comfort children with sensory processing issues.
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