Winston Center will be closed July 5, 2021, to observe the Fourth of July.
Fireworks are a traditional part of Independence Day, but they’re not always fun for kids with ADHD. Many are prone to hypersensitivity — the loud noises and bright, flashing lights during fireworks shows might overwhelm more than excite them.
Although sensory overload is most often talked about in relation to autism spectrum disorder, it can be a part of the ADHD experience as well. Researchers are still working to find out why this happens, but it may be connected to self-regulation issues or co-occurring conditions such as oppositional defiant disorder or anxiety. The ADHD brain can overreact in certain circumstances with an extreme emotional response.
Some kids with ADHD love fireworks, but a child with sensory processing issues could end up in tears. Here are a few ways to support your child through the noisy, colorful, overstimulating holiday.
- Pack a Pair of Noise-Canceling Headphones
A quality pair of headphones can do wonders for muffling the sound of explosions — a good choice for kids who might be especially sensitive to loud noises but want to enjoy the show visually. - Consider a Less-Crowded Location
Dense crowds might contribute to sensory overload. Watching fireworks with a smaller group might be more conducive to a pleasant experience for both you and your child. - Encourage a Balanced Diet
This holiday is full of sugary foods, from lemonade and soda to red-white-and-blue cupcakes. Kids with ADHD may have a stronger response to sugar or processed snacks. They can indulge with moderation but should balance it out with wholesome options. Choose protein and omega-3-rich foods to support brain function, such as nuts or hard-boiled eggs.
Raising a child with ADHD can be challenging and feel isolating — but you’re not alone in this journey! At Winston Center, we take a strengths-based and whole-body approach to treating ADHD, using the Winston Protocol as a guide. Empowering families in their treatment pathway, the Winston Protocol considers a broad range of medical, psychological and lifestyle factors, going beyond traditional counseling and medication.