Sensory-Friendly July 4th Celebrations
Holidays in general can be difficult for children with sensory processing sensitivities, but none more than the Fourth of July. Loud and bright fireworks, glow sticks, large crowds, the strong smell of the BBQ, staying up late, and much more can contribute to a difficult day for your sensory-sensitive child. If you want your child to enjoy the festive magic of the Fourth of July without the sensory difficulties, we are here to help. Keep reading to learn more about sensory sensitivities, how to help your child on this particular day, and the two products that are going to save your Fourth of July.
Does Your Child Have Sensory Sensitivities?
Being sensory sensitive is a natural variation in how we all process sensory information through our eight senses: sight, sound, touch, smell, taste, movement (proprioception), balance (vestibular), and interoception (internal body awareness).
While everyone has different sensory preferences, people with sensory sensitivities experience sensory input more intensely or differently than others. This can lead to discomfort, anxiety, or even physical reactions in overwhelming environments.
While everyone has unique sensory preferences, those who are sensory sensitive experience sensory information through one or more senses differently. This can manifest as hypersensitivity, where there’s an overload of sensory input, or hyposensitivity, where individuals crave more stimulation. This sensitivity can also change over time!
In fact, research by Robertson and Simmons (2013) suggests a link between sensory sensitivity and autistic traits. However, it’s important to remember that sensory sensitivity can occur across various diagnoses and even for people who do not have a diagnosis or any other condition.
[source: https://www.sensoryfriendly.net/what-does-it-mean-to-be-sensory-sensitive/ ]
How to Help Your Sensory Sensitive Child During the 4th
The Fourth of July can very quickly cause sensory overload in both children and adults who experience sensory sensitivities. It can quickly lead to anxiety, meltdowns, and more.
Here’s why:
| Triggers galore. | The Fourth of July is chock-full of sensory triggers, such as loud sounds, bright lights, large crowds, and strong smells. |
| Added pressure. | If you’re venturing out on the Fourth of July, it might be difficult for your child to participate in activities. This is because they may feel pressure from family and friends when visiting or feeling “forced” to take part. |
| Changes to routines. | On the Fourth of July, routines are different. Your child may be staying up late, eating different foods for multiple meal times, and seeing people they don't normally spend time with. |
So, how can you have a fun and enjoyable Fourth of July while also catering to your sensory-sensitive child’s unique needs?
Here are some tips:
| Prepare your child. | Explain to your child that the Fourth of July might be overwhelming, that their feelings are valid, and you are there to help keep them feeling safe and happy. |
| Limit their triggers. | Bring noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses, or watch fireworks from a distance to keep triggers to a minimum. |
| Bring familiar foods. | BBQ is a popular Fourth of July food; however, if your child isn’t used to eating this food, pack something familiar for them to munch on. |
| Use sensory tools. | Sensory toys such as our fidget toys and bubble wand can help keep your kiddo calm during anxious moments on the Fourth. |
Products You Need
As mentioned, sensory tools can help ease your child’s anxiety on the Fourth of July. Rather than distracting themselves with a screen, hand them a sensory fidget toy or bubble wand to turn those anxious frowns into fun, happy smiles. It keeps them engaged with what is going on around them while also easing their anxious feelings, allowing them to have fun and feel safe in an overwhelming environment!
Sensory Fidget Toys
Sensory fidget toys have been clinically proven to reduce stress and anxiety, especially in children who experience sensory sensitivities.
Our sensory fidget toys are mess-free, distraction-free, and can fit in the palm of your child’s hand. They’re perfectly quiet, so they won’t disturb others around them during your Fourth of July celebration. Plus, it keeps them engaged in what is going on around them, making an excellent alternative to screens.
Feeling stressed when fireworks are about to begin?
Overwhelmed by the large crowd?
Social battery running on low?
Grab a Spike sensory fidget toy!
Made of 100% silicone, all you have to do is toss it in the dishwasher with your daily load at the end of the day to keep it clean. Fits in any purse, backpack, and even the palm of your hand for discreet fidget play at any time of day.
Spike Sensory Bubble Blower
Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to the beach, or taking a road trip to Grandma’s, kids need low-effort, screen-free ways to stay engaged without the risk of overstimulation or meltdowns. Spike bubbles are here to save the day!
This sensory bubble toy gives tons of bubbles without the mess or soapy gooey residue. Perfect for sensory play, learning, bubble therapy, the classroom, birthday parties, special events, and more, this uniquely designed bubble system is non-toxic, calming, and worry-free for parents.
Made with plant extracts, coconut oil, and purified water, the skin-happy botanical bubble solution is easy on sensitive skin.
Plus, if your little one is in speech therapy, this uniquely designed bubble blower makes lip rounding exercises easier & more fun!
For more tips for parents of kids with sensory sensitivities and more great products to help, head to Innobaby.com!