Fireworks and Bonfires
Tips for the season of bangs, flashes and expectations
The clocks have gone back, and so we’re now in the busy season of fireworks, evening light shows, and bonfires.
If you’re worried about navigating these with your families, please keep reading.
Plan ahead:
Look into low noise displays.
Have a conversation beforehand about what to expect, which could include looking at the website or thinking about similar events you’ve attended. Find out what they would like to be involved in, if there are activities happening.
Plan together what things they can/can’t do, so that you’re not having these conversations at the event, when you likely can’t hear each other!
Include some exciting safe risk things. This could be sparklers, rides, or toasting marshmallows, depending on your family.
Make sure everyone understands fire safety rules
Decide on a code word, for a safe and calm exit if things feel too much or too hot.
Have something exciting to look forward to at home – such as a movie they like.
If you don’t think attending a bonfire or firework display is right for your family, then don’t go. You are allowed to rewrite the rules and traditions to suit your family. If you are parenting traumatised or neurodivergent kids, you can rewrite the script!
Stay in and do something totally opposite that involves WATER...create a new family tradition that is regulating and soothing, flip it totally and make it special (such as a themed bathtime).
