A new year comes soon, with new expectations and new opportunities. As an adult, New Year’s Eve represents an opportunity to have fun and start all over. For a child with autism, it means staying up late, drinking alcohol-free cider, and seeing some fireworks. However, if you have a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), then you know that New Year’s throws off routine and is overwhelming—and you barely ‘survived’ Christmas. Going out on New Year’s Eve is also problematic for children with sensory processing disorders due to the new places, loud noise, and bright lights.
Most of the time, families with autistic children stay at home to sensory overload. However, they could get bored if they are stuck inside. New Year’s Eve should be a fun celebration for everyone, so this article offers a few suggestions on how you can make the holidays enjoyable for your child with autism.
Watch Videos of Fireworks
Some kids with autism like fireworks. But they like them when they know what to expect. Talk with your kid ahead of time, make a social story about fireworks, or show them videos. On New Year’s, there will be plenty of channels showing fireworks, but if you record the program, then you’ll have control of the volume or the content your child can or can’t watch. If you are going out, consider taking noise-canceling headphones to be sure, and stand at a distance away from the crowd if your child is not comfortable with that.
Celebrate at Noon, Not at Midnight
Children with autism suffer from sleep issues and don’t like when their bedtime routine is disrupted. And, depending on the child’s age, he won’t be staying up till midnight to watch the ball drop. An alternative is to celebrate at noon, in a different time zone like China or Australia. This way, your child won’t feel left out.
Have a Small Party
Throw a small and simple party with your child. Fill a drawstring garbage bag with balloons or confetti and create your own ball drop. You can make this a fun activity for the whole family, so the child gets used to what New Year’s means. You can also create party hats, a quieter alternative to party blowers.
If your child wants to go out, there are probably several events in town that offer early kid-friendly celebrations. You can enjoy the festive atmosphere without disrupting the routine.
Stay at Home
There’s no need to celebrate New Year’s loudly, with alcohol and champagne; you and your family can have a wonderful time at home. You are the only one who knows your child’s limits and preferences best, so think about what’s good for him. Grab a weighted blanket and tuck in for a family movie night. It will take your child’s mind off of fireworks and loud noises. Take your favorite snacks and include your child’s toy into the mix.
Make a Themed Sensory Bin
New Year’s Eve is overwhelming for many people with autism. A sensory bottle or a bin can be the perfect calming tool. Playing with a sensory bin is relaxing, so you can try to make a New Year’s Eve-themed sensory bin filled with confetti, party streamers, party blowers, glow sticks, and any items your kid will enjoy. It’s an excellent way to celebrate by giving your child an outlet.
Plan a Board Game Night
Work on your child’s social skills by playing board games together. It will bring you all together and will distract your child from external sensory inputs. Or, you can dress up and have a dance party, especially if your child likes to move.
Have a Happy New Year! 🎉
This year, have a sensory-friendly New Year’s Eve with your child. A party doesn’t have to be like all the others. Make new traditions and memories, and find strategies that meet your family’s needs. There is a rise of awareness in the autism community, so now more than ever, there are places that offer autism-friendly services.
Read also: 16 Sensory-Friendly Christmas Gifts for Autistic Children.