Party planning for children with special needs does take a little more consideration, but nothing to worry about! Don’t worry yourself with what all the other kids are doing for their birthday parties, focus on what your child would enjoy. It is their party after all. Get your child involved in the planning, from the guest list and cake to the decor! Here are a few things to consider when planning party planning for children with special needs.
Tips for party planning for children with special needs
Guest list: Don’t feel that you have to invite everyone in her class. Sometimes too many kids can be overwhelming and not fun for her, it is her day. A few friends that she has selected herself will be just fine. This is about your child, not everyone else in the class. Also, if your child’s friends have special needs, talk to their parents and see if they need any accommodations.
Party Planning When A Guest Has a Nut Allergy
Activities: When you’re party planning for children with special needs, be sure to have a couple of activities but keep them short and quiet. Keep your child in mind when you are planning the party. It is okay to keep the party short, one hour or so. You want her to enjoy herself, not get agitated. It might help if the parents of the other children stay, but that is up to you. Maybe you have an older child who has a couple friends who wouldn’t mind helping out, or a neighborhood kid! Think outside the box when it comes to having extra hands to help out.
Food: Don’t worry too much about the food. There are many special needs kids who have to adhere to a special diet. Instead, focus on the fun! Even if none of your child’s guests have special needs, it’s still best to keep food simple (and easier on you!)
Venue: You can do a couple of things, keeping your child’s needs and wants in mind while party planning for children with special needs. Parks are always a great option, they allow the kids to just run and play, releasing some energy. Bring some balls and Frisbees and plan a few games such as a Hula-Hoop contest, or a sac race using pillowcases, or relay races. Another option is your home. Your child will feel comfortable in her own setting. Again, you can keep the list minimal, so as to not overwhelm her.
Backyard Party Games for Kids & Families
Party planning for children with special needs is not that different from planning a party for a child without those needs. Just keeping your child’s wants and needs in mind when planning and you will have a successful party!
Do you have experience in party planning for children with special needs? What sort of things did you learn you had to consider? Share your experiences with us below!
I haven’t planned a party for children with special needs but I think I would do things that make them comfortable. Use their favourite characters as a theme (as we usually do anyway) and I agree with not inviting everyone. That just helps mom keep her sanity 😉
Great list. I agree with not feeling obliged to invite every kid in the class. It’s not always feasible, nor should it be necessary. Sometimes a small intimate group can be a lot more fun.
Great ideas- thanks for sharing! I like the idea of keeping the party small and in a setting where the child feels the most comfortable. Kids have fun just celebrating their birthdays!
Great post. I agree, not EVERYONE in the child’s class needs to be invited to the party. (wether they are special needs or not). Kids see their peers all week anyways, I think only their best friends should come to a birthday party.
These are great tips- and many of them apply to any birthday party- I am definitely a fan of the small, intimate party approach!