Bonfire Night can be a lot for children with ADHD and/or autism. Sudden bangs, bright flashes, crowds and a late night all land at once. A little planning can help the whole family enjoy it – or skip it without stress.
At a glance
- Talk it through beforehand and show short firework videos at low volume.
- Let your child choose how – or whether – to take part.
- If going to a display, go small, arrive early and stand at the edge.
- If staying at home, create a cosy, quiet space and keep bedtime as usual.
- Agree a meeting point and put your number on a wristband.
Why can fireworks be hard for children with ADHD?
Many children with ADHD or autism process sound, light and crowds more intensely. Fireworks bring all of these together, often without warning and late in the evening. (And remember – fireworks often go off for several nights, not just on the 5th!)
6 Bonfire Night Tips for Parents
- Plan ahead. Talk through what will happen, watch short firework videos at low volume, or use a visual timetable.
- Let your child choose. Watching from a distance, from a window, or skipping it altogether are all fine.
- Pick the right display. Choose a smaller or sensory-friendly event, arrive early and stand at the edge of the crowd.
- Pack a calm kit. Bring ear defenders, comfort items and snacks, and agree a signal for when your child needs to leave.
- Make home a safe space. Close the curtains, play familiar music or white noise, and keep bedtime routines as usual.
- Stay safe. Supervise closely near bonfires and sparklers. If your child may wander, agree a meeting point and add your phone number to a wristband.
Most of all, follow your child’s lead. A calm night in is just as good as a big display!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I help my child with ADHD cope with fireworks?
Prepare them in advance with low-volume videos or a visual timetable, bring ear defenders, and agree a signal to leave. Let them decide how close they want to be.
Should my child with ADHD or autism go to a fireworks display?
Only if they want to. Watching from a window or skipping it altogether is completely fine. If you do go, choose a smaller or sensory-friendly event.
What can I do if fireworks keep going off for days?
Keep curtains closed in the evenings, use white noise or familiar music, and stick to your usual bedtime routine as much as you can.
Talk to other parents who get it
Many of us find the most useful tips come from other parents. Our free online peer support groups are a friendly space to share what works. Subscribe to our newsletter to reserve a spot.
- Parents of children and young people (under 18): Every second Tuesday of the month
- Parents of young adults (over 18): Every fourth Wednesday of the month
We’d love to see you there!