The only thing more American than apple pie and baseball is Independence Day. And what kind of celebration would it be without seeing a festive, sparkling fireworks display?
Most children love the bright colors and flashes in the sky and the ooh’s and ahh’s of the crowd add to the excitement. If you’re prepared for the event, you’ll all have a great time. If your little ones are uncomfortable, the enjoyment level plunges for the whole family. Don’t let your good time go up in smoke.
Here are some tips to make your Fourth of July more fun and less fuss for your whole family:
Prepare them ahead of time: Let your children watch recorded videos of previous displays on a website like YouTube. If they have an idea of what to expect, they may be more excited by the experience than terrified. If you see that your child isn’t tolerating it well online, you’ll know in advance that maybe its not the best event for him to attend.
Let them nap: One mistake that I made last year was going to a family picnic all day and letting it roll right into the fireworks festivities. It sounded great on paper, but my kids didn’t have a chance to rest and by the end of the fireworks they were overtired (moms everywhere are cringing) and cranky to the max. Learn from my brain-fart, give them a chance to rest.
Watch from afar: The great thing about fireworks displays is that they’re in the sky. Often times, you can find a vantage point that’s farther away where the loud sounds won’t be an issue at all. I happen to live in the Midwest. If we drive out into the country, we can watch multiple displays from surrounding communities at the same time. It’s amazing.
Bring ear plugs: Cheap foam ear plugs should be worn anyway. The decibel levels of a fireworks display are twice that of a running lawnmower. If you’re relatively close to the display, you and your children could suffer permanent hearing loss. That is NOT a party.
Take snacks and drinks: If you are going to a popular sitting spot for displays, chances are there will be vendors around peddling high-priced sodas and hot dogs. While it’s convenient, it’s also expensive. You can pack a full-blown picnic or bags of goodies for half the price you’d pay for mediocre carnival fare.
Don’t forget the jackets: Some nights are just as hot and humid as the daytime and some are breezy and chill you to your core. You never know. Be prepared. Cold kids are whiny kids.
Insect repellant is your friend: Don’t let your family be a smorgasbord for mosquitoes. Make sure to use some kind of insect repellant for the comfort and safety of your brood. Giving baths when you get home is much more attractive prospect than a week full of itchy owies.
Enjoying Independence Day with your family is an American tradition. Fireworks can be an awesome, inexpensive entertainment opportunity. If you plan it right, the rockets’ red glare will be a blast for your whole clan.
Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!
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