The countdown is officially on! We are just 10 days away from the Mother Hen Family Fun Day at East Lake Park on July 18th. We can already smell the fresh air and hear the laughter, but we also know that for many of our families, "Fun Days" require a little extra groundwork.
If your child navigate the world with sensory sensitivities, ADHD, or autism, a big community event can feel like a lot. Between the crowds, the unpredictable noises, and the change in routine, it’s natural to feel a bit of "pre-event jitters": for both you and your child.
At Mother Hen, we specialize in neurodivergent parenting support, and we believe that with the right preparation, every child can find their "win" at community events. Here are our top 10 tips to help your family prep for a sensory-friendly, joyful day at the park!
1. Map Out the Sensory Profile
Before you even pack a bag, take a moment to look at the day through your child's eyes. Is your child a "sensory seeker" who loves movement and loud music, or a "sensory avoider" who might find the hum of a crowd overwhelming?
Understanding their unique profile helps you predict which parts of East Lake Park will be their favorite (like the open grass) and which might require a bit more support (like the vendor area). This kind of parent coaching for ADHD and sensory needs starts with observation.
2. Create a "Social Story" for the Day
Children thrive on predictability. You can create a simple "Social Story" using photos of East Lake Park. Talk through the sequence of the day:
- "First, we will drive to the park."
- "Then, we will see the big Mother Hen balloons."
- "We might hear music and see lots of families."
- "If it gets too loud, we can go to our 'quiet spot' under the big oak tree."
3. Use a Visual Schedule
Transitioning from one activity to another is often where the biggest challenges happen. A visual schedule: a simple list with icons or drawings: helps your child see the "finish line." Knowing that "Snack Time" comes after "Play Time" can reduce anxiety and make family coaching for transitions much smoother.
4. Build the Ultimate Sensory "Go-Bag"
Don’t leave home without your toolkit! A well-stocked sensory bag is a game-changer. Include:
- Noise-canceling headphones for when the music or chatter gets too loud.
- Sunglasses and a hat to manage bright July sun.
- Fidget toys (like pop-its or weighted lap pads) to help with grounding.
- Familiar snacks to avoid "hanger" and provide a sense of comfort.
5. Dress for Success (and Comfort)
Sensory needs aren't just about what we hear; they are about what we feel. Choose tagless shirts, soft cotton fabrics, and well-worn sneakers. If your child has a "favorite" shirt that makes them feel brave or calm, July 18th is the perfect day to wear it!
6. Practice Social-Emotional Check-ins
Preparation isn't just physical; it's emotional. Use social emotional learning activities for children to practice identifying feelings before the big day. Ask your child, "How does your body feel when you think about the park?"
Our Children's Feelings Journal is a fantastic tool for this. It allows kids to draw or write about their "tricky-grumpy" days or their "super-excited" moments, helping them process the upcoming transition.
7. Identify "Quiet Zones" and Exit Plans
When you arrive at East Lake Park, the first thing to do is find your "safe harbor." Look for a shaded area away from the main speakers. Let your child know, "This is our home base."
Having a "secret signal" (like a double-tap on the shoulder) allows your child to tell you they need a break without having to find the words in a stressful moment. Remember, it is okay to leave early! A successful 30-minute visit is better than a stressful two-hour one.
8. Prioritize Heavy Work and Movement
For many neurodivergent kids, "heavy work" (activities that push or pull against the muscles) is incredibly regulating. Before heading to the more crowded areas of the Family Fun Day, let them run in the grass, jump, or do some "bear crawls." This helps ground their nervous system so they can handle the sensory input of the event.
9. Use Transition Tools like "Two Hugs and Two Kisses"
If your family is navigating transitions like a divorce or living in two homes, community events can sometimes bring up big feelings about who is present. Reading stories like Two Hugs and Two Kisses can help reassure your child that love is constant, no matter the setting. It’s a great way to build emotional resilience before a big family outing.
10. Regulate Yourself First
Perhaps the most important tip: Your calm is contagious. If you are stressed about the prep, your child will pick up on that energy. Take a deep breath, lower your expectations, and remember that the goal of the Family Fun Day isn't "perfection": it’s connection.
Join Us at East Lake Park!
We are so excited to see your family on July 18th! Whether you stay for the whole event or just pop in for a quick hello, we are here to support you. Mother Hen is all about creating spaces where every child feels seen and every parent feels equipped.
Don't forget to register! Secure your spot and join a community that truly "gets it."
Register Here for Mother Hen’s Family Fun Day!
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
