Throwing a sensory-friendly birthday party can be a great way to celebrate your child's special day while also accommodating their sensory needs. Here are a few ideas for sensory-friendly birthday party activities:
Decorations: Choose decorations that are not too bright or flashy, and avoid using confetti or other small, noisy items. You can also incorporate different textures, such as soft fabrics or ribbons, into the decorations to add sensory interest.
Games: Choose games that are not too loud or chaotic, and provide plenty of breaks for your child and their guests to rest and regulate their senses. You can try games such as Simon Says, Red Light Green Light, or Follow the Leader to get kids moving and exploring their senses.
Food: Choose foods that are not too spicy or strong-tasting, and provide a variety of textures for kids to explore. You can also offer foods that are easy to eat, such as finger sandwiches or cut-up fruit, to make it easier for kids with sensory processing disorders to participate.
Party Favors: Choose party favors that are not too loud or noisy, and avoid using items with strong smells or textures. Small toys, stickers, and playdough are typically successful party favors.
Art: Art activities are a great way to engage kids in sensory play and promote creativity. You can try activities such as painting, collaging, and making slime to add a sensory element to the party.
Movies: A marathon of movies playing in the background allows for a consistent activity that children can transition in and out of at their own pace. Movies that are not too loud or chaotic (overly stimulating) and provide plenty of breaks for kids to rest and regulate their senses are typically most successful.
Music: Music is a great way to engage kids in sensory play and add excitement to the party. You can try using instruments, such as drums or xylophones, or even try making your own music with household items, such as pots and pans. Just be sure to keep the volume at a reasonable level to avoid overwhelming kids with sensory processing disorders.
Sports: Sports are a great way to engage kids in sensory play in a social setting. You can try activities such as a mini-obstacle course, dodgeball, or a game of tag to get kids moving and exploring their senses.
Dancing: Dancing is another great way to engage kids in sensory play in a social setting. You can play a variety of music and encourage kids to move and groove to the beat. Just be sure to keep the volume at a reasonable level to avoid overwhelming kids with sensory processing disorders.
Playdough Station: Playdough is a classic sensory activity that allows kids to explore different textures and scents. You can set up a playdough station at the party with a variety of colors and scents for kids to play with. Just be sure to provide plenty of hand-washing stations to keep everything clean and hygienic.
By incorporating these sensory-friendly elements into your child's birthday party, you can create a fun and welcoming celebration that is inclusive and accommodating for all of your child's guests.