Many autistic adults and parents of autistic children tell us they choose not to celebrate bonfire night because it is too noisy, unpredictable and unsettling. For some autistic people, the unexpected nature of displays can cause anxiety and stress, and for those with sensory issues, fireworks can be very distressing.

But – unless you want to avoid it all together – there are ways to make bonfire night a positive experience. Good planning and communication can help you navigate many of these difficulties. Simple changes like agreeing a plan for the evening, letting your autistic neighbours know if you’re releasing fireworks, wearing ear defenders, or even watching firework displays on television at home, can help to ease stress and anxiety.

As ever, it’s important to remember that every autistic child and adult is different and that they must be involved in all planning.

With the help of our Facebook members, we have compiled the following list of tips to help you or your family member enjoy bonfire night from home. Follow these tips and use your SENSES

• S    -     Stick to a plan
• E    -     Eat well and keep warm
• N   -     Noise. You may want to use headphones or ear defenders
• S    -     Safety speech
• E    -     Extra distractions. Try putting on the TV
• S    -     Set an example

S - Stick to a plan

Autistic people can find unexpected events and sudden changes confusing and distressing, so try to stick to a plan as much as you can.

Talk to your family, or the people you live with about Bonfire Night, so that everyone knows what to expect, even if you are not celebrating.

If you are going to have your own fireworks or sparklers, decide what they are going to be and find out as much as possible about what they will look and sound like (this information should come with the firework). If you are attending an event, ask the host for this information.

Plan or find out when and how they will be set them off and explain this to any autistic children or adults who may benefit - you could write it down or create a visual story.

E - Eat well and keep warm

Comforting and familiar snacks and drinks (like hot chocolate) can act as a distraction and also help keep everyone calm.

Warm clothes can be a great comfort. Find items that help soothe you or the people in your care - such as a weighted vest or blanket, a favourite toy or handheld game.  

N -  Noise. You may want to use headphones or ear defenders

Ear defenders or noise-cancelling headphones can help to block noise and reduce the anxiety that people with sensory sensitivities may experience. Some block out noise but still allow speech to be heard, which can be reassuring.

You could also use headphones to play music as a distraction.

Be mindful of making noise. If you are going to set off fireworks, try to warn neighbours in advance. For your guests, try to provide a quiet place or somewhere to go, to get completely out of the way, if the noise gets overwhelming.  

S - Safety speech

Do not miss this perfect opportunity to talk about fire safety and the dangers associated with fireworks with your family.

Be aware that some autistic people’s dislike of fireworks may come from anxiety or fear of being hurt. Reassure them that you are obeying safety rules, but provide somewhere else for them to go if they don’t want to take part.

Read more about firework safety for your family, with this information from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. 

E - Extra distractions. Try putting on the TV

A familiar TV show, music or favourite computer game could help to drown out or distract from the noise and flashing of fireworks, if you or others find Bonfire Night uncomfortable or distressing.

Watch an online firework display, if you or those in your care want to celebrate Bonfire Night but you do not want to go outside.

S - Set an example

If you feel confident around fireworks and bonfires, try to show that you are calm and having fun, as this can be reassuring for those around you who may be anxious or unsure.

Take notice of how others around you are feeling and try to help everyone relax and have fun.

If you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed, tell people around you so that together you can find ways to be more comfortable.

Being open about this sets a good example. It shows that it is okay to find things difficult and to ask for help, so everyone can enjoy the celebrations.