Summer is filled with fun activities and events, kicking off with Canada Day on July 1st. While these celebrations are fun for some, they can also lead to sensory overload! Neurodiverse children and adults alike may find the festivities challenging due to noise (we’re looking at you, fireworks), crowds, and changes in routine. To ensure that Canada Day, Civic Holiday, and every celebration in between is inclusive for everyone, consider the following activities and adaptations.
- If you’re attending a fireworks event, utilize noise-cancelling headphones to reduce the auditory impact – this can be beneficial for children with sensory needs or adults with PTSD. Check out our Lending Library to borrow a pair for these events!
- Want to see the fireworks, but are not able to tolerate the crowds? Try watching the show from a restaurant with a view or your own (or a friend’s) window. Consider watching the show from a less crowded area that is accessible and easy to leave when you’re ready.
- Keep an eye out for smaller fireworks events in the community – some start as early as 8:00pm so there’s no need to face a potentially challenging routine change by keeping everyone awake past 10:00pm!
Canada Day can be celebrated on a smaller scale. You can forgo fireworks all together and instead enjoy your own light show with glowsticks, flashlights, or LED light wands. Check out a local park and have a Canada Day themed picnic featuring classic Canadian foods – maple leaf cookies, ketchup chips, and Nanaimo bars! Look into some books about Canadian culture and traditions, or by Canadian authors. Enjoy the day in any way that works for your family’s needs!
By: Danielle Gagné, KMFRC Military Family Navigator