The Sensory Side of Summer: How to Navigate Sensory Overload at BBQs, Parades, & Parties

Summer brings sunshine, celebration, and connection—but for many children, especially those with sensory sensitivities or emotional regulation difficulties, it also brings overstimulation. From the blaring music at backyard BBQs to the chaotic crowds of Fourth of July parades, the sensory demands of summer gatherings can quickly turn excitement into dysregulation.

Let’s unpack why this happens and how you can support your child’s nervous system before,

during, and after overstimulating summer events.

Why Summer Events Can Be Sensory Overload

BBQs, block parties, and parades are filled with unpredictable sensory input.

Some common triggers include:

● 🔊 Loud noises: Fireworks, speakers, cheering crowds

● 👃 Strong smells: Grilled food, sunscreen, smoke

● 👀 Visual stimulation: Bright sun, flashing lights, busy crowds

● 🤝 Unexpected touch: Hugs from unfamiliar relatives, sticky hands, crowded seating

● ⏰ Disrupted routine: Unfamiliar places, late bedtimes, new transitions

For a child with a sensitive nervous system, this influx of input can be overwhelming. Their body may go into “fight, flight, or freeze” mode—even when the purpose of attending these events is to create fun summer memories for your child.

Common Signs of Sensory Overload

Every child is different, but common signs of sensory overload include:

● Covering ears or eyes

● Withdrawing, shutting down, or difficulty communicating needs

● Restlessness or nonstop movement

● Crying, yelling or screaming

● Refusal to participate

● Kicking, hitting, biting, or other forms of physical aggression

The key is recognizing that these signs are not indicators of undesired behavior. It’s your child’s body telling you it needs support.

Cool Tools for Summer Events

Here are some simple ways to help your child navigate big summer events with more regulation and confidence:

1. Prepare Before You Go

● Talk through what to expect: who will be there, what the environment might

sound/feel/smell like.

● Usage of visuals, a visual schedule, or social stories can provide predictability and

decrease anxiety.

● Practice a "safe word" they can use to tell you they're feeling overwhelmed.

2. Create a Sensory Toolkit

Pack a small bag with tools to support their regulation:

● Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs for auditory sensitivity

● Sunglasses or a hat with a brim for light sensitivity

● Chewy necklace, gum, or crunchy snacks for oral-motor input

● Fidget tools, play-doh, stress ball, etc.

● Cooling wipes or a mini fan

● Favorite/familiar comfort item (blanket, stuffed animal, toy)

3. Offer Sensory Breaks

● Scope out a quiet area at the event where your child can take a break.

● Build in movement breaks—a color walk, swinging, animal walks, wall pushes, or even jumping in place.

● Use calming sensory strategies such as deep breathing ("Smell the flowers, blow out the candles."), blowing bubbles, or engaging in the 5-4-3-2-1 senses grounding game.

4. Respect Their Limits

Sometimes the best support is recognizing when they've had enough. Leaving early or skipping a portion of the event isn't a failure, it's a win for self-awareness and co-regulation.

After the Party: Decompression Matters

Give your child time to unwind after a big event. These “cool down” moments might look like

quiet time in their room, a warm bath, or snuggling with a book.

Reflect with them if they’re open to it: “When did it start to feel too loud? What helped you feel better?” This builds emotional awareness and confidence in using their regulation cool tools next time.

Remember: Fun Looks Different for Every Child

While one child might love fireworks and crowded carnivals, another might prefer a cozy picnic at the park. Both are valid. Supporting your child’s unique sensory needs doesn’t mean avoiding all the summer fun—it means redefining it in a way that feels safe and joyful for them.

With a little planning and a lot of empathy, summer celebrations can become opportunities for growth, connection, self-regulation and the creation of lifelong memories.

A Moment of Devotion

“My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” – Exodus 33:14

When the volume of life gets loud, take a moment and remember: God’s presence isn’t just in the quiet; it’s right there in the chaos too. In the middle of the music, the mess, and the meltdowns—He is there, steady and unshaken.

Say this prayer as you head into the noise and joy of summer celebrations:

“Lord, thank You for the gift of this season. Help me slow down and see my child through Your eyes—with tenderness, patience, and wisdom. May Your calm anchor us in the midst of overstimulation.”

You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to do it with faith—and God will meet you there. He sees you. He sees your child. And He’s walking with you, sensory overload and all.