Fireworks and Festivities Can Overwhelm Autistic Kids, Expert Warns

Jerusalem, 31 December, 2025 (TPS-IL) -- Pernik (BTA) – The loud noise from fireworks, flashing lights, and festive bustle can cause reactions of fear, uncertainty, and stress in children on the autism spectrum, psychologist Mariela Petrova told BTA.

She added that for for most people, preparations for the holiday are something normal and traditional, but for children with autism, this fuss could cause uncertainty and a corresponding reaction.

In response to a question about the sensations of children on the spectrum, Petrova said that the first thing that is observed is the so-called sensory overload. This is because there is a change in routine, which leads to uncertainty. Social expectations also lead to stress, as parents have an expectation that children will react “normally”, but this does not happen.

In most cases, when they hear a loud noise, they cover their ears, avoid contact, close themselves off, look for a dark and quiet place, and start trembling. This results in overexcitement and they isolate themselves. This is because their hippocampus has difficulty placing unfamiliar sounds in a safe context. The prefrontal cortex “turns off” under stress, which leads to a reduced ability to self-regulate, the psychologist also commented.

In such moments, it is important to know that the child is not being stubborn, but rather a type of reaction to the stimulus. It would be very helpful if the child received guidance through breathing exercises. It is good to have a process of so-called desensitization – about a month before the holiday, the child should slowly prepare for the event through short stimuli.

It is good to work actively with a psychologist, as well as in so-called sensory rooms, Petrova added. Her office has one where consultations and activities are held with both the children themselves and their parents.

She added that autism is a state of being “inside itself”. The idea is to work specifically on emotional coldness and indifference to the world. In these cases, there is an active escape from contact and permanent withdrawal into oneself. The goal is to teach children not to engage in escape behavior.

“Love and empathy open the door to the heart of these seemingly emotionally distant children,” Petrova added..