How to Plan an Autism-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt
Make Easter inclusive for everyone! Discover our sensory-friendly Easter egg hunts designed to provide a fun and stress-free experience for everyone.
Easter is a time for family, friends, and fun. But for families with children on the autism spectrum, it can be a stressful time. Planning an Easter egg hunt for autistic individuals or someone with sensory aversions can be a challenge. But with a little insight and conscious adjustment, you can achieve a successful, autism-friendly Easter egg hunt that includes everyone in the fun.
Why have an Autistic-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt?
1. Inclusivity
Overall inclusivity should be taken into account when having an Easter egg hunt to ensure that all participants feel welcome and valued. Easter egg hunts are a fun and exciting activity for many people. However, it’s important to remember that not everyone experiences the world in the same way. By taking steps to create an inclusive environment, such as considering sensory needs, providing accessible routes, and making accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Therefore, everyone can participate and enjoy the event. By prioritizing inclusivity, Easter egg hunts can become a more meaningful and enjoyable experience, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community.
2. Sensory Considerations
Sensory considerations should be taken into account when having an Easter egg hunt to ensure that all participants can enjoy the event and feel included. In general, individuals with sensory sensitivities may be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or sudden surprises. If these factors are not taken into account, it can make the experience uncomfortable or even unbearable for some participants.
3. Positive Experience
Having a positive experience with autistic or sensory issues during an Easter egg hunt is crucial for promoting inclusivity and fostering a sense of community. For autistic individuals or sensory adverse, participating in events like Easter egg hunts can be challenging and overwhelming. If the environment is not accommodating or inclusive, it can lead to feelings of exclusion and isolation. By providing a safe and sensory-friendly environment, everyone can feel more comfortable and included in the event. A positive experience can also ripple effect, encouraging participation and engagement in future events and creating a more inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
Tips for Making Your Easter Egg Hunt Inclusive
1. Practice at Home
Before the hunt, practice hiding different toys and objects in the garden and invite a few neighbors or friends to come over. This will help your child become more comfortable with the idea of an Easter egg hunt and get used to the idea of searching for hidden items.
2. Create a Visual
A great way to have an autism-friendly Easter is by creating a visual for your child of the events that might happen. This can help you practice the events that will happen and help them become more comfortable.
3. Sensory-Friendly Easter Egg Filler Ideas
Children on the autism spectrum often have allergies, sensitivities, or negative reactions to the dyes, sugar, and other ingredients in the candy that typically fills Easter eggs. Instead, consider using these non-food, sensory-friendly items to hide in Easter eggs. This will benefit not only kids with autism but also those with food allergies. Some ideas include:
4. Make it a Team Effort
Let them be involved in the planning process. Ask them what kind of Easter egg hunt they would like to have and what kind of prizes they would like to receive. This will make them feel included and help them understand what to expect.Â
5. Keep it Short
Depending on your age and level of understanding, the Easter egg hunt may need to be shorter than usual. Make sure to keep it short and sweet, so no one gets overwhelmed.
6. Offer Alternative Activities
Offer alternative activities, such as sensory bins or art stations, for those who may not want to participate in the egg hunt.
7. Provide a Quiet Space
Lastly, Provide a Quiet Space: Designate a quiet space for anyone who may need a break from the activity. You can include things like a sensory box for them to play in or watch their favorite show while they relax.Â
With these tips, you can make your Easter egg hunt autism-friendly and ensure that everyone has a great time.
Sources: 1. https://worldstemcellsclinic.com/blog/autism-and-easter-making-egg-hunt-autism-friendly/ 2. https://sarahscraftography.com/autism-friendly-easter/ 3. https://www.speciallearninghouse.com/easter-egg-filler-ideas/ 4. https://app2vox.com/resources/autism-friendly-easter-egg-hunt/ 5. https://carmenbpingree.com/blog/social-distancing-style-on-the-hunt-for-autism-inclusive-easter-ideas-and-eggs/
