7 Things to do with a kid who hates fireworks

If you have a child who is not looking forward to the noise and lights of fireworks this summer, embrace it.

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The holiday of patriotism doesn’t have to be a sun-filled summer day chocked to the brim with hot dogs, Popsicles, loud explosions and crazy flashes of light. If the firework scene is just not going to work for your family this summer, you’re not alone.

And it’s still totally possible to celebrate the Fourth of July, with or without those fireworks.

1. Park it

If the hustle and bustle of the crowds at the fireworks viewing area is just too much for your child, consider parking your family in a more secluded area and simply watching the fireworks from your car. You may not get a close-up view, but that’s kind of the point, right? Some of my best Fourth of July memories are snacking with my siblings in the back of my parent’s minivan on a secluded dirt road. We could barely see the fireworks, but the night was way more fun anyways.

2. Bring headphones

One mom posed the dilemma of whether to bring her son to a fireworks display, explaining that in some situations, her son does need to be pushed to new experiences before he enjoys them. One possible compromise for the Fourth of July? Pack headphones so your child could still be with the family, but also zone out if needed.

3. Buy a pop-up tent

Some parents have found it helpful to invest in a small pop-up tent that can serve as a safe place for your child to watch the fireworks or retreat if necessary.

4. Watch a fireworks video

Whether you opt out of fireworks completely and just enjoy them from home or use screen time to show videos to prepare your child, a few YouTube videos of fireworks can be helpful.

5. Make fireworks in a bottle

No need to fight the crowds to make these fireworks. Get the tutorial here.

6. Use a patriotic pinwheel

No sparklers or risk of burning? Winning. Get a free printable version here.

7. Screw it all and make your own at home

Rice, food coloring and a night at home doesn’t sound too bad, now does it? Craft here, oohing and aahing optional.

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