Included in the Fourth of July Independence Day

Cover image of fourth of July fireworks in the night sky, african american gentleman with sensory sensitivities covering ears and yelling.

The Fourth of July is almost here. But, it’s not all about the ooh’s and aah’s of fireworks for some people with intellectual disabilities and autism. For many people it can cause frustration, anxiety, and a sense of feeling overwhelmed. It is very hard to completely escape the celebrations. However, there are several things that we can do to help support people on this fun-filled, yet sometimes, chaotic and noisy day.

Prepare

One consideration is to prepare people in advance. Talk about what the day will include. If you are planning on going to a picnic or fireworks party, talk them through what the day will entail. You may even consider showing a video of a fireworks display so that they know what to expect. If someone has noise sensitivity, you may even wish to practice with some noise cancelling headphones.

Photo of a girl facing fireworks display on a black night sky. Her hands are holding noise canceling headphones over her ears

Backup

You should know your plan for the day, but also have a backup plan. For many people the sensory experience of noise, crowds, and lots of smells can be totally overwhelming. In addition to frequent reviews of what the day may look, sound, and feel like, we must consider what we will do if the day becomes too much. We should plan what we could do if the environment becomes overly stimulating. It may help to develop a sign with the person if they feel overwhelmed that can key you in to the fact that they need to leave.

It may also help to consider sensory items that the person may find helpful when they are anxious. As mentioned earlier, you may wish to consider noise cancelling headphones. Maybe the person has a preferred fidget item. Another consideration may be to have a quieter place the person can go to for a break. This may give them enough of a reprieve that they may feel ok to enjoy the rest of the event.

It is important that we stay flexible. Not everyone enjoys the big crowds and the big ka-booms. Perhaps we find some other activities that are a little lower key. But most of all we can learn to find ways to celebrate the day together!