Tips for a Sensory-Friendly New Year's Eve

Tips to Create a Sensory-Friendly and Safe New Year’s Eve for All

New Year’s Eve often brings loud celebrations, dazzling lights, and bustling crowds. It is out with the old year, and in with whatever the new year brings- which is exciting but can be overwhelming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), sensory sensitivities, or even pets. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a sensory-friendly New Year’s Eve experience that’s enjoyable for everyone.

Create a Calm and Comfortable Environment

Instead of attending crowded parties or noisy events, consider celebrating at home or in a familiar, low stimulation setting. You can:

• Dim the lights: Avoid harsh, flashing lights. Opt for soft, ambient lighting instead.
• Use noise-canceling headphones: These can help block out overwhelming sounds.
• Designate a quiet room: Provide a space where guests can take a break if they feel overstimulated and need some alone time.

Plan Activities for Different Sensory Needs

Choose activities that match the preferences and abilities of your loved ones:

• Arts and crafts: Make New Year’s-themed decorations, such as paper hats or banners.
• Interactive games: Play engaging but not overstimulating activities, like board games or puzzles.
• DIY countdown: Build a sensory-friendly countdown clock with soft lights or tactile elements like felt numbers.

Modify Traditional Celebrations

Adapt typical New Year’s Eve traditions to make them more inclusive:

• Firework alternatives: Use sparklers, glow sticks, or videos of fireworks instead of attending a live display.
• Quiet music: Replace loud party playlists with calming tunes or nature sounds.
• Adjust the timing: If staying up until midnight is too much, celebrate with an earlier countdown.

Offer Sensory Tools and Supports

Having the right tools available can make a big difference:

• Fidget toys: Help individuals stay calm and focused.
• Weighted blankets or lap pads: Provide comforting pressure for those who benefit from it.
• Snacks with familiar textures: Offer a variety of foods that are enjoyable and easy to eat.

Communicate and Prepare in Advance

Preparation is key to any successful celebration:

• Explain the plan: Use visual schedules or social stories to outline what will happen during the event.
• Practice new activities: Familiarize your loved one with any unfamiliar traditions or items beforehand.
• Be flexible: Adjust plans based on how everyone is feeling.

Keep Pets Safe and Comfortable

Pets can also become stressed by New Year’s Eve activities, especially loud noises. Help your furry friends feel secure with these tips:

• Create a safe space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area where pets can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
• Drown out noise: Play calming music or turn on a TV to help mask loud sounds, such as fireworks or party noises.
• Avoid unsafe items: Keep party decorations, such as confetti and balloons, out of your pet’s reach to prevent choking or ingestion hazards.
• Supervise during fireworks: We often forget that fireworks don’t just happen in the summer; they are big on New Year’s Eve too! If fireworks are happening in your area, stay with your pet to offer reassurance and keep them inside to prevent escape attempts.
• Make sure food is up high and your pets can’t reach and ingest things they shouldn’t have. There are many things like chocolate that can be very harmful to your furry friends. Consider offering pets special dog/cat treats so they get something meant for them. 

Celebrate in Small Groups

A small gathering with close family or friends can be less overwhelming than a large party. This helps ensure a supportive and understanding environment.

New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be overwhelming for it to be memorable! By adapting the celebration to accommodate everyone’s needs, you can create a joyful and inclusive experience for everyone. These thoughtful adjustments can help the new year begin with happiness, comfort, and connection for all!