Here we are, another old year’s day and thinking how the Kings will handle the fireworks this year. You see, things have been changing a bit as they got older. However, some years ago was extremely stressful during New Year’s celebrations, particularly for King #2.
I know a lot of you are concerned about your children with regards to fireworks so I thought in writing a few tips that helped my Kings and the entire family by default.
NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES
Some years ago, we ordered some hi-tech, sophisticated headphones designed to deal with these sorts of noises (they are made specifically for hunting). It was around the time when the scratch bombs became popular so the headphones did not work as expected back then, mainly due to the unpredictability issue with these scratch bombs.
However, after they were banned, the Kings made full use of these headphones in the following years with decent results. I think the headphones also became an item of comfort and safety for them. So whenever they use them, they feel protected.
WATCHING FIREWORKS ON YOUTUBE
Just before New Year, we usually show the boys videos of fireworks and explain to them what they are and why people use them. I think it is wise to prepare their minds in advance to what they will hear tonight.
I started by showing fireworks videos without any sound so they could see the lights, etc. and then slowly add the volume little by little until the video played normally.
THEY DON’T STAY UP LATE
The two youngest Kings have a bedtime routine that we don’t really variate from, not even during old year’s night. It is mostly due to the fireworks issue, given the fact that when the fireworks start, they are already asleep so even if they are awake by it, they are still quite sleepy and not reactive to it.
I am just thankful that in the past few years where I live, I have not heard many fireworks taking place during the day.
GRADUAL EXPOSURE
Our King #2 has been the one most affected by the noise of fireworks. In the past twelve years, this time of the year has been a nightmare. He shouted, screamed and cried inconsolably due to the fireworks. However, as he got older we started realizing that he seemed to tolerate the noise of fireworks better every year.
A couple of years ago, when we started seeing a serious change in the way he handled these noise levels, we went by the Savannah to watch the fireworks during Independence Day. We explained everything in advance. We didn’t go because we like fireworks but because we wanted our boys to see them.
The two youngest Kings took their noise-cancelling headphones and we all watched the display. King #2 stood away from us a little bit and watched the display quietly. There was no shouting or screaming of any kind.
I know this might not be possible for every one since every child is different so it is important to know your child before you do anything.
However, gradual exposure throughout the years has helped our King #2 tremendously. Just like those days when we couldn’t go to the grocery store because he would have a meltdown. We kept going with him over and over until he became used to that routine.
JUST ONE DAY
This tip is for you as a parent. I know it is a very stressful day and I know that you are concerned about how your child will react tonight. But you know what? I also know that you are strong so please just hold on tight and go through it. I promise that this day will pass quickly!
Happy New Year. 🙂
