St. Patrick´s Day for Kids with Autism: 8 Steps to Make it Fun!

8 Steps to Have a Fun St. Patrick´s Day for Kids with Autism

1. Prepare for the Day—Preparing for St. Patrick´s Day for kids with autism is a vital step in ensuring a positive experience. One effective method to accomplish this is using visual schedules. This visually appealing tool presents structured plans for the day, thereby enhancing the child’s understanding of the expectations and events planned by the family. Preparing a visual schedule specifically for St. Patrick´s Day can be particularly beneficial in helping your child grasp behavioral expectations.

   For instance, if the family intends to attend a gathering, you can prepare your child by explaining that other family members will be present, that greeting them is routine, and that engaging in conversations with them is not a new experience, even if they are wearing lots of green. For further guidance on how to create a compelling visual schedule, the guide provided by Autism Parenting Magazine can be a helpful resource.

2. Seek Support with ABA Therapy — Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a structured approach aimed at addressing the challenging characteristics of autism by teaching tools and skills that enhance the client’s functioning in various environments. Through ABA therapy, individuals with autism can strengthen their communication skills and coping mechanisms and foster healthy behaviors, among many other benefits that can be invaluable in navigating festivities, including St. Patrick´s Day. ABA therapy plans are entirely personalized, allowing parents to seek assistance from therapists in preparing their child for a pleasant and inclusive holiday season tailored to their child’s unique needs.
3. Provide Moments of Comfort—Adjusting to a new routine can pose challenges for children with autism. To motivate their participation in family activities, incorporate those activities your child finds enjoyable and comfortable into the day’s schedule. On St. Patrick´s Day, kids with autism need to have time allocated for activities they find pleasurable.

   For instance, reserve an hour or two during the day for them to watch their favorite movie or TV show, listen to their preferred music, or engage in their favorite hobby. By including periods in the day that provide comfort to your child, you help foster a sense of control, security, and autonomy, which in turn encourages better behavior. These accommodations are essential to ensuring that St. Patrick´s Day is a positive and rewarding experience for all.

4. Create New Traditions – Each individual with autism has unique circumstances, which means that what may be comfortable for one child could be unsettling for another. When planning St. Patrick´s Day for kids with autism, parents must be mindful of what triggers problematic behaviors. For instance, some neurodiverse families might attend a parade without any issues, while others might find it overwhelming due to their child’s heightened sensitivity to stimuli.

   The individual’s context is where the importance of creating new St. Patrick´s Day traditions tailored for children with autism comes into play. Fortunately, with creativity, social media, and internet access, we have the opportunity to discover enjoyable, autism-friendly activities. For instance, themed scavenger hunts, baking shamrock cookies, crafting St. Patrick´s Day-inspired items, or hosting a costume party at home are all exciting new traditions that every family member can participate in and enjoy.

5. Anticipate Sensory Overloads – If you choose to participate in events such as parades, local festivals, or any venues with significant noise and crowds, it’s crucial to anticipate potential sensory overloads. Loud sounds, vibrant colors, and crowds can act as triggers for individuals with autism who are sensitive to sensory stimuli, making it essential to have a plan in place. If you decide to leave the house, ensure your child wears noise-canceling headphones, find a quiet spot to enjoy the event away from crowds, identify nearby areas where you can retreat with your child for rest, and bring calming objects for your child to use when needed. Make sure to read this Sensory Friendly Solutions guide to make the St. Patrick´s Day parade sensory-friendly.
6. Incorporate Technology – Technology can be a fantastic resource for celebrating St. Patrick´s Day with children with autism. There’s an array of engaging resources that can pique your child’s interest in Irish culture. For instance, platforms like “The Irish Road Trip” provide virtual tours of Ireland, an enjoyable activity for the whole family that also presents an ideal educational component for St. Patrick´s Day for kids with autism.
7. Cultivate a Support Network – Having a circle of family or friends who understand autism can make all the difference when celebrating an inclusive St. Patrick´s Day for kids with autism. There’s no need to feel embarrassed if a crisis arises or sensory overstimulation occurs; these situations are typical, and having a support network is essential for maintaining calm during stressful times. It’s also important to note that more public events are now providing designated areas for individuals with disabilities, which can be beneficial for those with autism and sensory sensitivities. These areas offer a more comfortable, safe, and quiet environment as they’re reserved exclusively for those who need them. Additionally, consider having your child wear an autism sticker, bracelet, or identification card during events like St. Patrick´s Day. An identification symbol can help alert others to your child’s needs and ensure their comfort.
8. Involve Your Child in the Planning – Organizing St. Patrick´s Day for kids with autism can turn into an exciting experience when you include your child in the process. Paying attention to their needs and preferences offers invaluable guidance in choosing activities that are enjoyable for everyone. Moreover, by allowing your child to participate in the planning, you provide them with a sense of control and make them feel acknowledged, which can promote positive behavior during activities. You can not only consider their input on activities but also engage them in planning meals and decorations.