At a Glance: Common Party Pitfalls for Grade-Schoolers With Learning and Attention Issues

At a Glance: Common Party Pitfalls for Grade-Schoolers

Grade-schoolers with learning and attention issues may look forward to birthday parties but be anxious about attending them. These events can be less stressful if you prepare your child for these common party pitfalls.

Interacting with other kids can be scary.
Why it’s problematic: Your child may nd it scary to talk to party guests she doesn’t know if she has trouble with language skills. Even if she knows everyone, she may worry about saying the wrong thing.
What you can do: Role-play with your child how to start a conversation with someone she doesn’t know. Brainstorm topics she might talk about with new acquaintances, classmates and kids on her soccer team. It’s also a good idea to practice how to greet the birthday child.

There’s too much going on!
Why it’s problematic: Loud music is playing. Kids are running around, playing a game of freeze-tag. Your child can’t tell what the other kids are shouting. She may find the commotion overwhelming.
What you can do: Before the party, talk to the hosts about what will go on. Then tell your child. She may decide in advance whether she wants to play. It can also help to know how many rounds of games there will be until things calm down at cake time.

Everything is unfamiliar.
Why it’s problematic: If your child thrives on routine, it may feel unsettling to not know the adults in charge or where to find the bathroom, for example. If she’s particular about what she eats, she may be anxious about the party food.
What you can do: Fuel up on favorite foods beforehand so she doesn’t get too hungry. When you arrive with your child, look together for all the things she might need. Introduce her to a go-to adult. If you can, stay at the party until she’s comfortable.