4^th of July Celebration Support for Children with Autism

The 4th of July, 2021 is fast approaching. With social experiences opening up as the grip of COVID-19 loosens, I can imagine the excitement of participating in 4th of July celebrations. Families and friends will be gathering. Spirits will be high, and excitable activities will be present for enjoyment.

This beautiful image conjured in my mind may or may not be so charming a thought for families with autistic children. While lots of people, socialization, games, excitement, noise and most prominently fireworks inspire an imagined day of bliss for many, these same activities may bring on much anxiety for children with autism and their families.

A big party at an unknown location, with no schedule, lots of people talking and laughing, loud music, random banging noises, and many hours lacking predictability or routine can be the catalyst for a long perilous day for children with autism.  Yes, those games are the type your little-one enjoys. Absolutely, water play is a favorite activity. And, of course, hot dogs are preferred meal.  So why is your precious package of love screaming — again!?

These preferred activities and foods are being presented within a new environment, follow slightly different rules, require sharing and interacting with others, offer heightened levels of excitement, and produce confusion.  All this change within usually predictable activities may quickly become overwhelming to a child with Autism. 

Creating a mobile safe space to which your child can retreat may alleviate some stress. Having this consistent space may allow your little one to find a slice of predictability within an extremely unpredictable environment.

1. Designate a lawn chair that is designed specifically for your child only. 
2. Include 2 matching, lightweight, oversized beach towels (use one towel and keep the other put away to bring out incase spills or messes make it necessary to change the towel)
3. Attach a bag with any special items for your child only (no sharing required).  Examples include:
   1. toys
   1. sensory supports
   1. calming activities
   1. snacks
   1. drinks
   1. pillow

These items should remain with the chair at all times.  Practice moderation – do not let the child take them around the party. If the child uses them at the chair only he/she will not get tired of them and they will provide the needed relief or distraction when necessary.

Take the chair and support items with you whenever you change locations to make it a safe haven.  Even if you simply move from back yard play to front yard fireworks display bring the chair and items with you!

You can place a 2^nd chair in front of the child’s chair and easily make a tent by streaming the beach towel across the tops.  This may provide shade, give the child a way to block out the over stimulation, or provide a space to find security and regroup. 

May everyone have Safe, Happy, and Healthy 4^th of July celebrations!