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4th of July is a holiday which commemorates the American Independence Day. Commonly celebrated with barbecues and captivating fireworks displays, the day carries a spirit of exuberance and revelry.

Nonetheless, parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are often required to adopt a more mindful approach in their festivities.

Autism sensory sensitivities

The reason pertains to the potential for sensory overload—an Autism condition where an individual becomes overwhelmed with sensory stimuli from sights, sounds, and smells.

For children on the autism spectrum, this heightened sensitivity can manifest as anxiety, discomfort, or behavioral outbursts in response to the bustling and often unpredictable environment associated with Independence Day celebrations.

Support during the Holiday season

In an Interview with Eileen Lam, the director of social media and social influencer marketing at Autism Speaks, she elaborated on this issue explicitly by giving an example involving her own son, who is diagnosed with level three autism, also referred to as severe autism. She explained that under such overwhelming conditions, he might respond by crying, curling into a ball, and covering his ears — behaviors that signify his attempt to cope with the excessive sensory input.

She gave an example with her two children where one can easily communicate and understand social stories that prepare him for events like fireworks or barbecues. In contrast, her nonverbal son, Charlie, faces difficulty engaging in a two-way dialogue and requires a different approach. For Charlie, providing comfort through recognizable stimuli such as favorite snacks and fidget toys is crucial. Keeping a close proximity is also essential when navigating social gatherings.

For example, she advises finding a location to observe the fireworks from within the safety. A vantage point on a hill or another optimal viewing spot allows the child to enjoy the spectacle without becoming overwhelmed by the crowd and noise.

Alternatively, if venturing out is too daunting, hosting a home viewing party can be an excellent substitute. Utilizing online platforms like YouTube to stream fireworks shows provides a similar experience without the associated stressors of large gatherings. This way, the child can enjoy the visual feast in a familiar, controlled environment.

Tailoring support to ASD children

In other words, tailoring strategies to individual needs is paramount. Eileen elaborated that meticulously planning ahead could mitigate potential meltdowns and make the holiday experience more manageable for children with sensory sensitivities. For instance, identifying quieter times to attend events, ensuring familiar comforts are readily available, and providing noise-canceling headphones can create a more accommodating environment.

Importantly, she underscored the necessity for patience and flexibility, acknowledging that spontaneous changes might be necessary to prioritize the child’s well-being. This personalized approach fosters a supportive atmosphere, allowing the child to gradually adjust and partake in celebrations at their own pace.

Illinois Autism Center

At Illinois Autism Center, we understand the complexities of supporting children with sensory sensitivities. Our commitment to providing quality ABA therapy ensures that each child receives individualized care tailored to their unique needs.

For quality ABA therapy, our team of experienced therapists works diligently to create personalized strategies that help children navigate challenging social scenarios.