Making July 4th Crackle and Pop

Summer is a season brimming with fun and exciting activities, and one of the highlights is the biggest birthday celebration ever: July 4th! Many of us eagerly anticipate the fairs, parades, and fireworks displays that take place across the country. The festive atmosphere, vibrant colors, and jubilant gatherings create an environment of joy and excitement. However, for children on the autism spectrum, these festivities can present unique challenges.

Children with autism often experience sensory sensitivities that can make the loud noises, bright lights, and bustling crowds of Independence Day overwhelming. The sensory overload from fireworks, the unpredictability of large gatherings, and the disruption of routine can all contribute to a stressful experience. This doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the holiday; it just means that with a little extra planning and consideration, they too can have a wonderful time.

By proactively considering and addressing these potential challenges, you and your little firecracker can create a wonderful and memorable experience. Preparation is key, and setting clear expectations can make a big difference.

Here are some tips to help your child enjoy July 4th:
  1. Plan Ahead: Visit the location beforehand if possible, and discuss the schedule of events with your child. Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety.
  2. Use Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can help block out the loud sounds of fireworks and large crowds, making it more manageable for your child.
  3. Have a Comfort Object: Bring along a favorite toy or blanket that can provide comfort and a sense of familiarity.
  4. Find a Quiet Space: Identify a quiet area where your child can take a break if the festivities become too overwhelming.July 4th
  5. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to change plans if your child becomes too distressed. Sometimes, watching fireworks from a distance or celebrating at home can be just as fun.
  6. Talk About Sensory Tools: Let your child know they can use sunglasses to dim the bright lights or earplugs to soften loud sounds.

To assist with this preparation, here is a social story from Positively Autism designed to help set expectations for your child, making the celebration enjoyable for everyone involved. This resource can guide you in explaining the events of July 4th in a clear and reassuring manner, ensuring that your child knows what to expect and feels more in control. With thoughtful planning and these supportive strategies, your family can look forward to a joyful and inclusive Fourth of July celebration.

We have been a family blessed with the help of the team at The Helm. Our son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when he was 2.5 and The Helm was one of the places recommended by our developmental psychologist. I am a physician and still found it hard navigating this new medical problem and knowing what to do next. I called many places and from step one Lee Ann was the most helpful explaining the process with paperwork, assessment, available services, insurance, etc. we were able to start therapy quite soon after diagnosis and had sessions at home daily for 3 hours. The quality of staff, the system they have in place for the therapists, the coordination by the BCBA supervising therapist and early response put us at ease that we were on the right path. Ultimately the steady positive changes we saw with our son overcame any fears we had about autism holding our son back for the rest of his life.

We used many forms of intervention that we felt were individually tailored for our family – for potty training, anger management, dietary intervention and even let them know when we could not maintain something suggested in family training, and they would just take our request and implement another plan. Our son has now graduated/transitioned out of therapy and is currently in pre-K in a regular classroom with him on par with his class in academics, has friends and no behavior issues. Most important of all we have a happy son who loves to play with his big sister.

I know that I will always read all there is on autism and watch my son for any features. But I hope my review adds to positive aspects that I wish someone would have told me when I started the journey – start early, don’t put off your suspicions, get your child evaluated now! The label does not hinder,  in fact it falls to the side once you have the diagnosis to facilitate therapy. ABA intervention, especially done with the right people, makes a big difference. It does not pressure or upset the child at all, and you are not stuck in therapy for life! I know if any behavioral issues come up in the future I have The Helm, and they will help us and the outcome is going to be positive. Said with heartfelt thanks.

– Former Helm ABA Family

Unlock this guide and take control of your ABA jouney!

* indicates required