The 4th of July is a time for celebration and togetherness. But, for families with a child on the Autism Spectrum, any holiday, especially one known for fireworks and family gatherings, can present unique challenges. To help support your family in navigating all things 4th of July, we’ve compiled five of our favorite tips for bringing some sensory-friendly fun to your Independence Day.
1. Understand Your Child’s Sensory Sensitivities
Noisy parades, fireworks, large gatherings, and changes to the “normal” routine can be overwhelming for children with ASD. Why? Because Autism often affects how the brain processes and adapts to sensory input. If your child becomes overstimulated in hectic or unfamiliar situations, consider attending smaller family gatherings, opting for sensory-friendly events or hosting your own backyard BBQ to allow more control over the environment.
Be prepared for activities by bringing your child’s favorite sensory-support items like noise-canceling headphones and preferred communication tools (visual aids or AAC devices). Having these items available can help reduce stress and anxiety during noisy activities, while still allowing your child to enjoy celebrations.
2. Create a Safe Zone
Whether your hosting 4th of July celebrations or your visiting friends, we encourage setting up a designated area where your child can retreat if they start to feel overwhelmed. This “safe zone” can include any preferred toys or comfort items that make your child feel safe, secure, and calm.
We also recommend sharing ground rules for the “safe zone” with other party goers. This will help guests understand how they can be supportive and respectful of your child’s needs. By creating this space and communicating boundaries you’re giving your child a place where they can self-regulate!
3. Prepare in Advance
Challenges with unfamiliar situations, changes in routine, and transitions are common in children with Autism. Introducing the concept of a 4th of July celebration in advance can help your child feel prepared to navigate the day more easily. Social Stories are a great way to explain what your family will be doing and what your child can expect. Role-playing and testing unfamiliar foods beforehand are also great strategies to help your child feel prepared. The clearer the picture you paint, the more manageable the holiday will be!
Sample Social Stories for Your Family
- https://www.positivelyautism.com/downloads/socialstory4thofJuly.pdf
- https://www.marshall.edu/atc/files/The-4th-of-July-Social-Story.pdf
4. Understand Risks and Take Extra Precautions
Independence day goes hand-in-hand with lake trips, fireworks, and crowded events. And, while these activities are generally fun and harmless, families with a child on the Autism Spectrum should take extra precautions to ensure their child stays safe.
If you’re heading to a crowded public event like evening fireworks or a parade, we encourage you to equip your child with a GPS tracker, like AngelSense, which was specifically designed for children with Autism. Even if your child has no history of wandering, added stressors like noise, crowds, lights and overexcitement, can trigger their flight response.
For families who prefer to spend their holiday at the beach, it’s important to be aware that water poses an increased risk to children on the Autism Spectrum. According to the American Red Cross, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4. Children with Autism experience even higher risk of drowning. Sources like the Autism Society of Florida note that children on the Spectrum are about 160 times more like to drown than neurotypical peers. If your 4th will be spent on the water be sure to:
- Alert friends, family and life guards on duty to your child’s safety needs.
- Have barriers in place to help prevent elopement (gates around pools, pool ladders pulled up, child proofing on doors, etc.).
- Create clear water rules for your child and practice those rules in advance.
- Use flotation devices. Children on the Spectrum may struggle wearing life vests or “floaties” but these tools are critical to ensuring safety. If you have concerns with child’s ability to tolerate these items, work with your BCBA on strategies to build up that tolerance before you hit the water.
5. Foster Open Communication
Take the time to communicate with family members and friends about your child’s specific needs during the holiday. By sharing information and strategies that work well, you ensure everyone feels prepared and confident. Regular check-ins can also be beneficial, allowing everyone to adjust plans as needed throughout the day!