Attending Outdoor Events for Children with Sensory Challenges

Many children with autism struggle with sensory challenges. Attending outdoor events can present sensory challenges that can become overwhelming for kids with ASD. However, there are things you can do to help your child have a better experience during outdoor events. Since the summer months often allow the opportunity to attend outdoor events, let’s explore some strategies that will help you help your child enjoy these experiences.

Plan Ahead for Outdoor Events

Research the event beforehand to understand the layout, activities, and potential sensory triggers. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare your child.

Children with autism can experience sensory overload in various ways, especially in stimulating environments like summer activities. Some common triggers include:

• Auditory Stimuli
  • Loud noises such as music, shouting, or fireworks can be overwhelming for children with autism, leading to sensory overload.
• Visual Stimuli
  • Bright sunlight, flashing lights, or crowded environments with lots of movement can be visually overwhelming for some children with autism.
• Tactile Sensations
  • Certain textures of sand, grass, or water may be uncomfortable for children with sensory sensitivities. Additionally, crowded spaces can lead to accidental bumping or touching, which can be distressing.
• Temperature Changes
  • Extreme heat or sudden temperature changes, such as moving from air-conditioned indoors to hot outdoor environments, can be uncomfortable for some children with autism.
• Smells
  • Strong smells from food, sunscreen, insect repellent, or even natural outdoor scents can trigger sensory overload in children with heightened olfactory senses.
• Social Interactions
  • Navigating social interactions and understanding social cues can be challenging for children with autism, particularly in crowded or unfamiliar settings like summer activities.
• Unpredictability
  • Sudden changes in schedule or unexpected events can cause anxiety and sensory overload for children with autism who thrive on routine and predictability.
• Sensory Integration Challenges
  • Children with autism may struggle with processing and integrating sensory information, leading to difficulties in filtering out irrelevant stimuli and focusing on what’s important.
• Communication Barriers
  • Difficulty in expressing needs or understanding instructions can increase stress and contribute to sensory overload, especially in environments where verbal communication is essential.
• Overstimulation from Multiple Sources
  • A combination of sensory stimuli, such as loud music, bright lights, and crowded spaces, can quickly overwhelm children with autism, making it challenging for them to regulate their sensory experiences.

Understanding these potential triggers and implementing strategies to mitigate sensory overload can help make summer activities more enjoyable and accessible for children with autism.

Bring Sensory Tools to Outdoor Events

Bring items that can help regulate your child’s sensory input, such as noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys, or a weighted blanket.

Sensory items can be invaluable for children with autism during the summer, helping them regulate their sensory input and navigate challenging environments. Here are some sensory items that can be particularly helpful during the summer months:

• Sun Hats and Sunglasses
  • Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can provide protection from the sun while also reducing visual glare, which can be overwhelming for some children with autism.
• Sunscreen
  • Choose sensory-friendly sunscreen options that have a smooth texture and are free of strong smells or irritants. Look for brands specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
• Water Toys
  • Water play can be both fun and calming for some children with autism. Consider toys like water tables, sprinklers, or water balloons to provide sensory-rich experiences during hot summer days.
• Cooling Vests or Neck Wraps
  • Cooling vests or neck wraps filled with cooling gel or beads can help regulate body temperature and provide relief from the heat for children who are sensitive to warm temperatures.
• Chewelry
  • Chewable jewelry such as necklaces or bracelets made from safe, non-toxic materials can provide oral sensory input and help reduce anxiety or agitation during outdoor activities.
• Sensory Balls or Squishy Toys
  • Soft, squeezable balls or squishy toys can serve as portable sensory tools for tactile stimulation and stress relief while on the go.
• Portable Fans or Misters
  • Carry a small handheld fan or mister to provide instant relief from the heat and help your child stay cool and comfortable during outdoor outings.
• Texture Exploration Kits
  • Put together a texture exploration kit filled with items of varying textures such as smooth stones, sand, seashells, or fabric swatches. Encourage your child to explore and engage with different textures for sensory stimulation.
• Noise-Canceling Headphones
  • Lightweight noise-canceling headphones can help reduce auditory overload from loud noises like fireworks, concerts, or crowded events, allowing your child to enjoy summer activities more comfortably.
• Outdoor Swing or Hammock
  • Set up an outdoor swing or hammock where your child can relax and sway gently, providing vestibular input and promoting relaxation in a calming outdoor environment. They also make rocking lawn chairs that may be enjoyable for your child as this is a more portable option for when you are going to a new place.

Remember to consider your child’s individual sensory preferences and sensitivities when selecting sensory items for summer activities. Providing a variety of options allows your child to choose what works best for them and enhances their overall sensory experience during the summer months.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Teach your child calming techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation to help them cope with sensory overload.

Relaxation strategies for kids with autism can help them manage stress, anxiety, and sensory overload. Here are some effective techniques:

• Deep Breathing
  • Teach your child deep breathing exercises to help calm their nervous system. Practice taking slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth.
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation
  • Guide your child through tensing and relaxing different muscle groups in their body. Start with their toes and work your way up to their head, encouraging them to release tension with each muscle group.
• Sensory Tools
  • Provide sensory tools such as fidget toys, stress balls, or textured objects that your child can use to self-soothe and regulate their sensory input.
• Weighted Items
  • Weighted blankets, vests, or lap pads can provide deep pressure input, which has a calming effect on the nervous system for many children with autism.
• Mindfulness and Meditation
  • Practice mindfulness exercises with your child, such as guided meditation or body scans. Encourage them to focus on the present moment and observe their thoughts and sensations without judgment.
• Visual Supports
  • Use visual supports like calm-down cards or visual schedules to help your child understand and follow relaxation techniques independently.

More Tips for Successful Outdoor Events for Kids with Autism

• Choose the Right Time
  • Consider attending the event during quieter hours or at the beginning when it’s less crowded. This can help reduce sensory overload.
• Create a Safe Space
  • Find a quiet area or designated sensory-friendly zone where your child can take breaks if they feel overwhelmed. This space should be away from loud noises and crowds.
• Communicate with Event Staff
  • Inform event organizers about your child’s sensory challenges. They may be able to provide accommodations or offer assistance to make the experience more comfortable.
• Use Visual Supports
  • Visual schedules or social stories can help prepare your child for what to expect at the event, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.
• Encourage Participation
  • Allow your child to engage in activities at their own pace. Encourage them to try new things but respect their limits if they’re feeling overwhelmed.
• Celebrate Small Victories
  • Acknowledge and praise your child for their efforts, even if they only participate in certain aspects of the event. Every step forward is a success.
• Have an Exit Plan
  • Be prepared to leave the event if it becomes too overwhelming for your child. Knowing you have an exit strategy can alleviate stress for both you and your child.

Remember, every child is unique, so it’s essential to tailor your approach based on your child’s specific needs and preferences. Above all, prioritize your child’s comfort and well-being while still encouraging them to explore and enjoy new experiences.