By: Abby Davis

Birthday parties and other celebrations can be overwhelming for children (and adults!) even on the best of days. If your child has sensory needs, here are a few things to consider to help make your child’s birthday party special and enjoyable. 

Limit guest count

While you may feel tempted to invite everyone you know to this event to celebrate your child, limit this event to close family and friends. 

Create a sensory-friendly environment

Birthday parties usually come with loud music, lots of chatter, sounds of happy children, and bright colors/lights. For a child with sensory needs, consider dimming the lights, playing light/ambient music, and having some simple games/activities such as bubbles, balloons, and/or sensory bins for children to enjoy. 

Simplify your expectations

We all remember opening presents, having a crowd of people singing happy birthday, and blowing out candles on a cake as staples of a birthday party, but this can be simplified! Consider letting your child open gifts at a later time or periodically as you go through the party. If your child is easily overwhelmed, have 1-2 people sing happy birthday (mom or dad)  instead of everyone at the party. Let your child lead the order of events! Allow them to open presents and eat their cake when they feel ready, rather than on a schedule. 

There are many ways to think outside of the box to allow your child with sensory needs to enjoy their big day! For more suggestions, your therapist is a great resource and is happy to help with ideas!