Use your SENSES for an autism-friendly Bonfire Night
National Autistic Society encourages us all to use our SENSES to enjoy the fireworks this November 5.
For many people across the country, Bonfire Night on November 5 is a highlight of the year, with bonfires and displays of fireworks, and an excuse to eat toffee apples and toast marshmallows over the fire.
Photo by Zara Walker
But many autistic adults, as well parents of carers of autistic children, choose not to join the celebrations. For some autistic people, Bonfire Night is too noisy, unpredictable and unsettling, while fireworks displays can cause stress and anxiety, particularly to those with sensory sensitivities.
Now the National Autistic Society has produced a list of helpful tips to make Bonfire Night a more positive experience for everyone, based on the easily remembered acronym SENSES. This stands for:
- Stick to a plan
- Eat well and keep warm
- Noise – you may want to use headphones or ear defenders
- Safety speech
- Extra distractions – try putting on the TV
- Set an example
These are detailed in full on the Bonfire Night and fireworks page of the NAS website. But often, says the charity, good planning and communication can help prevent or overcome difficulties. Simple things such as agreeing a plan in advance for the evening, wearing ear defenders or watching a firework display on TV at home or out of the window can help to ease stress and anxiety.
Peter Watt, Director of National Programmes at the National Autistic Society, says: ‘There are more than 700,000 autistic people in the UK and, for some of those people, Bonfire Night and firework celebrations can be overwhelming. Many autistic people enjoy fireworks, but for others, unexpected flashes and loud bangs, as well as large crowds at displays, can be distressing and trigger intense anxiety. For some autistic people it can even be physically painful if they experience sensitivity to light and sound.
‘We want to encourage everyone to use their SENSES in the run up to Guy Fawkes Night. The easy to remember acronym will help with small adjustments that can make a big difference. Head to our website – autism.org.uk – where you’ll find plenty more advice and information.’
The site includes information, strategies and tips for coping with sensory differences.
In related news:
New unit to support children with autism opens in Hillingdon
