Organising an Inclusive

Organising an Inclusive Birthday Party

BIRTHDAY PARTIES CAN CREATE FEAR IN MANY PARENTS. ALL THE EXCITEMENT, NOISE AND SUGAR AT THE START, FOLLOWED BY TEARS AND TANTRUMS AT THE END.

Not to mention all the for them too. But for very Social exclusion: the new expensive, catering and different reasons. Social bullying? planning that’s involved. media has been buzzing According to the Institute

But one aspect of the with examples of disabled of Social Exclusion, bullying planning that parents and special needs children has changed from playshouldn’t worry over is the not being invited to birthday ground teasing to being exinvite list. Should you invite parties. And in some cases, cluded from activities. Both the child in the class with they are the only child in the types of bullying can have special needs? The simple class without an invite. the same emotional impact answer is, yes. Having In response, blog posts on the individual. children with special needs have popped up across the But not all exclusion is at the party may require a internet from special needs about party invitations or bit of extra preparation, but parents urging people to games in the playground. it shouldn’t mean they miss include their children. One Many parents say their speout on an invite. mother wrote an open letter cial needs children are being

Not invited on Facebook to the parents excluded from relatives’

For parents of children of her son’s classmate. They homes because of behavwith special needs, knowdidn’t invite him to their iours associated with their ing there’s a party on the party, because, she believes, child’s disability. Some chilhorizon can cause dread he has Down syndrome. dren are excluded because

they’re simply ignored by relatives or family members won’t make necessary accessibility changes to their property.

Social inclusion improves health

In a report by the UK’s University of Birmingham, engaging in play and leisure activities outside the home can help improve psychological wellbeing and physical health. It can also contribute towards positive social interactions and relationships. The report’s message highlights that whilst disabled children and their families face some barriers to social inclusion, disabled children have just the same needs as other children.

Plan ahead for a fun, inclusive party

To make your child’s next birthday party inclusive, it just needs a bit of extra planning. By thinking carefully about a few details, it’s possible for everyone to enjoy themselves.

Here are some tips to help you create a birthday party that includes everyone.

Don’t be afraid to speak to parents of children with special needs if you are uncertain about what their child may require. • Think about how accessible your house is or the venue that you will be having the party at. Could a wheelchair get through easily if required? • Think about what activities will suit your guests. From simple craft activities, singing and dancing and organised sports, to board games and Lego. Parties can be quite chaotic and confusing. • The more you can explain to the children about what is going to happen and when

the better. That way they will know what to expect. • Some children can find the moment when everyone sings the happy birthday song incredibly overwhelming. A brief activity in another room could be a good distraction and ensure there’s minimal distress. • Organise different zones that each have a variety of sensory activities available for all the children. All children will enjoy this, not just special needs children. • Many children have dietary needs, so make sure you know what the children can and cannot eat ahead of time.

All it takes is a little extra organisation and thought, and your child’s next birthday party can be a wonderful occasion that all their friends can enjoy.

By Leigh Marcos on www.specialneeds.com.