Party at Sky Zone

Sky Zone was our local trampoline park.  We ended up buying a family membership because it was cost effective for the number of times per month that we ended up going. We used it so much that I think we made money on the deal. Wink.

Mikey was comfortable there so when the invite came for this birthday party, I knew he’d want to go and that he could handle it.

Some Background

At the start of each school year, Dave and I wrote a letter to Mikey’s classmates.  I have linked it below so you can look at an example and read my thoughts about why these letters are helpful.* In the letter, we address birthday parties in particular.  We explain that Mikey loves parties and would truly appreciate being included.  This isn’t meant in a rude or sarcastic way, but some people know only the stereotypes of Autism.  They might think he wouldn’t want to go or would be overwhelmed by a big group of loud kids.  Those things might be true for some kids, but not Mikey.

How to Reply

So, the invite has arrived.  Should you just say yes, no matter what? I think it’s worth giving it some thought. If your sense is that the activities at this party are going to be way too much for your child to handle, it might be okay to RSVP no.  After all, the last thing you want is to go to the party and have your child melting down in the middle of someone else’s celebration.

If you think your child might be able to do it, I’d say reply yes by giving the parent a call.  This way, you can let them know that you’ll be staying. I always took the opportunity to let them know that I wouldn’t need any food or drink…that they could pretend I wasn’t even there  – I would just help Mikey as the aide helps him at school.  The conversation also gives you a chance to ask a little bit about the party to understand potential pitfalls and plan ahead.

What to Bring

1. A gift for the birthday kid!  If you’re not sure what typical kids that age like to play with, a gift card is always good.
2. A change of clothes for your kiddo, just in case.
3. Food for your child in case they don’t eat what is being served.
4. A treat food in case they don’t like the flavor of cake being served.
5. Fidget toys or an activity for them to do if one or more of the party activities is too challenging for them.
6. Medications and any medical supplies your child needs for a few hours away from the house.
7. A backpack so you can have all of this stuff handy and also have your hands free to help your child…use their school backpack if you don’t have an extra one around.

If your child hasn’t been invited to a birthday party yet, consider the back-to-school letter, a classroom visit or having a birthday party of your own for your child.  Either invite the whole class or ask the teacher and aide who is kind to your child, even if they are in other classrooms in the same grade.  You don’t need to wait for your child’s birthday…you can just have a Pals Party and tell people no gifts.  People are more likely to invite your child if your child has invited them first.

*For the information on our back to school letter, click the link below: