How to Spend July 4th With Special Needs Kids

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Happy 4th of July weekend everyone! Here's an article with some July 4th tips!

How to Spend July 4th With Special Needs Kids

The 4th of July is full of festivities: picnics, parades, carnivals, fireworks

and family reunions. Children with special needs can easily become over

stimulated with so many activities that they are not used to. Carefully plan

your holiday with your family and friends so the day can be enjoyable for all.

Instructions

1.

Step 1

Choose the activities you think your child can most enjoy. Forgo

activities that will cause your special needs child to become uncomfortable or

agitated. Make arrangements for activities to be in familiar places for your

child. Have a picnic at Grandma's house instead of the park.

2.

Step 2

Pack a bag full of tricks to help keep your child comfortable and happy.

Include favorite treats, toys, books, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and any other

items your child may need. Pack a special meal in the pack so you don't have to

worry about foods your child will or will not eat at the picnic/BBQ.

3.

Step 3

Make a plan for a quick exit should one be needed. Immediately leave any

activity that makes your child uncomfortable. Arrange to meet family and friends

at a central location for other activities that can occur later in the day.

4.

Step 4

Prepare your child for the day by talking about the events a few weeks in

advance. Talk about fireworks, parades and picnics. Tell your child about the

people you will be spending the holiday with, foods you will eat and any other

things that will help your child to be comfortable with the day.

5.

Step 5

Do activities indoors when the weather or noise upsets your kid. Spread

out a picnic on the living room floor, and watch fireworks from the room in your

house with the best view. Watch a neighborhood parade from a friends house, or

watch it from your air conditioned vehicle.

6.

Step 6

Wrap up the day early when necessary. Keep in mind that it may not just be

your child that is uncomfortable; a grouchy child can make those around him

miserable as well.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2248529_spend-july-4th-special-needs.html

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