Who doesn’t love a good party? They’re a chance to get together with all of your friends—and if you’re a kid—eat lots of cake and play some games. Birthday parties especially are an exciting experience for children. However, for children with autism, these roaring good times can present a few unique challenges. There’s no need for anyone to get left out of the fun, however. By simply incorporating a handful of thoughtful accommodations, parents can create a more inclusive environment where every child feels welcome and comfortable. At Monarch House we have a professional, interdisciplinary staff or occupational therapists, behavioural therapists, psychotherapists, and speech pathologists that are here to help with ideas and suggestions to relay to other parents for upcoming birthday events, and also a few things to keep in mind for your child’s own birthday party. Working together, we can make it one for the books. 

Here are ten practical ways to ensure a party is inclusive for children with autism in Mississauga. 

1. Modify Traditional Party Games 

Pin The Tail On The Donkey can be a great game for a birthday party if you swap out the pin for velcro. Duck-duck-goose is always a roaring party favourite too. You can also adapt popular games like musical chairs or piñatas to make them more inclusive. For instance, try it with dark sunglasses instead of a blindfold. Or, use soft lighting and quieter music for musical chairs. At Monarch House, we can help to come up with some ideas to provide non-competitive alternatives like a treasure hunt, or building a giant blanket fort. 

1. Choose a Calm Venue 

Having the right location for your birthday bash is paramount. Laser tag might not be the best choice. But maybe a sunny day at a botanical garden with a hedge maze might fit the bill. When thinking of where to go, select a location that minimizes sensory overload. A bird sanctuary, a familiar home setting, or a sensory-friendly venue can be excellent options. Avoid places with excessive noise, strong smells, or crowded spaces.

1. Provide a Quiet Zone 

It’s reassuring to know that there is a safe sanctuary nearby if needed. Before you start the party, designate a quiet space where children can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Equip the area with comforting items like fuzzy blankets, cushions, fidget toys, sunglasses, and noise-canceling headphones.

1. Send Detailed Invitations 

When it comes to having a child with autism, it’s important to minimize ambiguity. This applies to the most minute details, even the birthday party invitation itself. This is both for your child’s and your guests’ sake. Make sure that information is crystal clear. Consider using a visual support like a diagram, flow chart or pictograph. Mention the schedule, activities, and any sensory considerations like loud music or bright lights that might be present. Offering this information helps other families with neurodivergent children prepare for what to expect.

1. Use Visual Schedules 

Break out the felt markers and card stock to make a giant, colourful poster that outlines the day’s events, and the order in which they will happen. This predictability is reassuring for children with autism. Visual aids such as schedules or picture cards can help children with neurodivergence understand the flow of the event. Display the schedule prominently and update it as needed throughout the party.

1. Plan Sensory-Friendly Activities 

At Monarch House, we can help you come up with ideas for games and events to do at the party. It’s important to include activities that cater to various sensory needs. Options like a water table, bubble station, or craft area allow children to engage at their own pace. It’s best to be mindful to avoid overly complex or competitive games that may cause stress.

1. Keep Food Simple 

What’s a birthday party without a delicious cake and a nice spread of veggies, candy, fruits, meats, and cheese? Offer a variety of foods to the children and other parents. If possible, include options that are gluten-free, casein-free, or free of other allergens. It’s never a bad idea to take out a felt marker and label the food clearly so parents can guide their children’s choices easily.

1. Communicate with Parents

It might sound a little ironic when it comes to birthday parties, but try to keep the surprises to a minimum. Be sure to talk to the other parents of children with autism in advance to understand their needs and preferences. They can provide valuable insights into what will make their child feel most comfortable.

1. Train Your Helpers 

Monarch House always encourages an all-hands-on-deck approach to working with a child with autism. If you have older kids, siblings, or adults assisting, ensure they understand how to support children with autism. Brief them on the importance of patience and non-judgmental interactions.

1. Focus on Inclusion, Not Perfection 

Things don’t always go exactly according to plan, and that’s okay. It’s important to be flexible above all else. Remember, the goal is to make every child feel included, not to create a flawless event. Celebrate the small successes, and be patient and adaptable if plans need to change.

You can have your child’s birthday party be the most celebrated and talked about event of the year. It’s your chance to light up their face and make their special day truly memorable. It just takes a little planning. Monarch House is happy to help. By considering the unique needs of children with autism in Mississauga, you can host a birthday party that everyone enjoys. Being mindful of the details and open communication are key to creating an inclusive celebration where all children feel valued and respected.