A Sensory-Friendly Easter: Creating Inclusive Celebrations for All

Practical Tips for Families and Community Organizers

Easter, a time of renewal and rebirth, is often painted with hues of joy and anticipation. For many families, it’s a day filled with cherished traditions, from the excitement of an Easter egg hunt to the warmth of shared meals. However, for children and adults with sensory sensitivities or who experience sensory overload, this vibrant holiday can present significant challenges.

Imagine the disappointment of a child who longs to join the Easter egg hunt but is overwhelmed by the cacophony of excited voices and the unexpected movements of other children running about. In addition, imagine the heartache of parents who want to share the magic of the season with their family but find the sensory stimulation to be too much. Unfortunately, these experiences are all too common for individuals who process sensory information differently.

Emily’s Easter Challenge

For seven-year-old Emily, Easter iss a bittersweet holiday. The anticipation of finding colorful eggs, the sweetness of chocolate treats, and the excitement of new clothes fills her with joy. However, Emily’s sensory processing disorder often overshadows these delights. The cacophony of excited children’s voices, the overwhelming brightness of decorations, and the unpredictable movements of people during the Easter egg hunt creates a sensory storm that turns her excitement into anxiety. Even the feel of a new dress against her skin can be overwhelming.

Alex’s Easter Experience

The clatter of silverware, the insistent hum of conversation, the scent of roast mingling with floral arrangements—for most, these are the comforting hallmarks of an Easter feast. For Alex, a veteran living with PTSD, they are more like a minefield. Sudden and loud noises cause great alarm. The crowd of all the family together in a small space is overwhelming. Even the rich, unfamiliar aroma of the meal triggers a wave of nausea. They sit at the table, a ghost in their own family gathering, their mind a million miles away from the laughter and cheer around him, just trying to make it through.

The stories of Emily and Alex are not uncommon. In fact, many children and adults with sensory sensitivities face similar challenges during festive occasions. This blog post aims to shed light on these experiences and provide practical solutions to create more inclusive and enjoyable Easter celebrations for everyone. Furthermore, by understanding the challenges faced by individuals like Emily and Alex, we can foster a community and family where all feel welcome and valued.

Understanding Sensory Sensitivity and Overload

Our Senses
Sensory processing is how our brain interprets input from sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, movement, balance, and internal body signals (interoception). For many, this is seamless, but for individuals with sensory processing differences, it can pose significant challenges.

Sensitivity and Overload
Sensory sensitivity means heightened reactivity to sensory input, often causing discomfort or distress. When sensory input becomes overwhelming, it can lead to sensory overload—a state where the brain struggles to process stimuli, triggering anxiety, frustration, or physical discomfort.

Sensory Processing Challenges
Sensory challenges aren’t limited to sensory processing disorder (SPD). Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as those with PTSD or anxiety disorders, often experience sensory differences. Over 25 conditions can make sensory processing difficult: Who Has Sensory Sensitivity?

Learn More
Dive deeper: Understanding Sensory Disorders and Differences

Why a Sensory-Friendly Easter Matters

Sensory sensitivities vary in severity and affect people of all ages. Understanding these differences helps create more inclusive environments. For example, loud noises or background music can trigger sensory overload. By prioritizing sensory-friendly practices, we can create a more inclusive and enjoyable Easter for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Sensory Friendly Easter Tips for Parents

Tips	Details

Prepare your child

Look at pictures and videos of Easter events beforehand. Discuss what to expect and practice social interactions.

Choose sensory-friendly events

Search for events with limited crowds, lower noise levels, and no flashing lights.

Manage expectations

Discuss realistic expectations with your child about the Easter Bunny, photos, and treats. Be prepared for a shorter visit, leaving early, or arriving late.

Bring sensory tools

Pack items like noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, sunglasses, a hat, or other calming tools.

Plan for meals and toilet breaks

Ensure your child is well-fed and hydrated, and plan for toilet breaks.

Practice social greetings

Practice different ways to greet people, offering options like high-fives, fist bumps, or air hugs for those uncomfortable with close contact.

Transform playtime into a rehearsal

Use imaginative play to practice social interactions, gift-giving, receiving, and table manners. For example, have your child create their own Easter Egg Hunt for their toys. Pretend play can help prepare children for unfamiliar events.

Choose sensory-friendly clothing

Easter outfits can be overwhelming with tags, stiff fabrics, or tight waistbands. Opt for sensory-friendly clothing with soft fabrics, flat seams, and tagless designs. Read more: Beyond Comfort: How Sensory-Friendly Clothing Empowers Individuals with Autism and Sensory Sensitivities

General Tips for Organizations and Religious Communities

Event Tips	Details
Offer sensory-friendly hours	Dedicate specific times for quieter events with lower light levels and limited crowds.
Communicate clearly	Provide detailed information about the event schedule, noise levels, and sensory considerations.
Train staff and volunteers	Train your team on sensory sensitivities and how to best support individuals with these needs.
Create quiet zones	Designate calming spaces with comfortable seating and quiet activities like books or sensory toys.
Offer fidget toys	Provide fidget toys for children who may benefit from tactile stimulation.
Offer inclusive greetings	Provide visual cues or ask people their preferred greeting method.
Limit crowds	Implement registration systems or manage visitor flow to avoid overcrowding.
Turn down noise	Reduce background music, loud announcements, or noisy activities during sensory-friendly hours.
Adjust lighting	Dim bright lights or offer sunglasses for those sensitive to light.
Consider accessibility	Ensure accessible restrooms, ramps, and clear pathways are available.
Offer healthy snacks and water	Provide healthy snack options and water to avoid blood sugar crashes and dehydration.
Looking for more solutions?	Read our blog post: Creating a Welcoming Sanctuary: Sensory-Friendly Churches for Everyone.

Offer a Sensory-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt

Topic	Tips

Quiet areas

Designate calm spaces away from the main event for those needing a break.

Sensory-friendly decorations

Choose muted colors and avoid overwhelming visual stimuli.

Accessible pathways

Ensure clear and unobstructed paths for wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids.

Ground cover

Consider alternatives to grass, such as an indoor space, for those with sensory sensitivities.

Lighting

Adjust lighting levels to accommodate different visual needs. Offer sensory-rich and sensory-friendly times.

Variety of egg types

Offer different egg textures (plastic, rubber, fabric) and sizes to cater to various sensory preferences.

Alternative hiding places

Hide eggs at different heights and in accessible locations for all participants.

Visual cues

Use clear and simple visual cues to indicate where eggs are hidden.

Sensory-friendly prizes

Provide a range of non-food prizes to accommodate dietary restrictions and sensory sensitivities.

Timed hunts

Offer different start times for various age groups and abilities.

Egg color or count

For small groups, finding eggs by color or specific count can help reduce overwhelm and provide structure.

Staff training

Educate staff on sensory sensitivities and how to interact with participants respectfully.

Communication

Provide clear and concise information about the event, including sensory-friendly accommodations.

Flexibility

Be prepared to adapt plans based on participants’ needs and preferences.

Inclusion

Welcome families with diverse abilities and create an atmosphere of acceptance.

Ideas for a Sensory-Friendly Easter Bunny Visit

Topic	Tips

Quiet room

Create a calm space or quiet room for children who may feel overwhelmed by the Easter Bunny and need a break.

Sensory-friendly decor

Use muted colors and avoid loud noises, background music, or flashing lights.

Accessible seating

Provide a variety of seating options, including chairs and floor cushions.

Staff training

Educate staff on sensory sensitivities and how to interact respectfully with children with different needs.

Flexible visitation

Offer one-on-one or group visits based on children’s preferences. Use a registration system to limit crowd size.

Gentle voice

Encourage the Easter Bunny to use a calm and gentle voice.

Visual supports

Provide visual aids like sensory stories, social stories, or visual schedules for children with communication difficulties.

Short visits

Keep interactions brief to avoid overwhelming children.

Alternative activities

Offer sensory-friendly activities, such as coloring or playdough, for children who prefer not to meet the Easter Bunny.

Sensory breaks

Provide opportunities for children to take breaks in a quiet space.

Family support

Offer support and encouragement to families with children with sensory sensitivities to ensure inclusion.

Positive reinforcement

Praise children in ways that align with their individual needs and preferences.

Sensory-Friendly Easter Meals

Creating a peaceful and enjoyable Easter meal can be a wonderful way to celebrate with your family and community. Here are some tips for a sensory-friendly meal and gathering:

Section	Tips

Sensory-Friendly Mealtime

Familiar Foods

Include familiar dishes to avoid sensory overload.

Separate Plates

Serve individual portions to minimize food touching, if preferred.

Quiet Environment

Reduce background noise as much as possible.

Accommodations

Be flexible and willing to accommodate guest needs.

A Calm Gathering

Quiet Spaces

Designate a quiet area away from the group for those who need a break.

Sensory Breaks

Plan short breaks for sensory input regulation, such as a planned walk.

Schedules

Use schedules to help manage expectations, letting everyone know what to expect and when.

Inclusive Activities

Offer a variety of activities beyond an Easter Egg hunt.

Open Communication

Encourage open communication about feelings and needs with your guests.

Bonus: Sensory-Friendly Easter Greetings

Easter is a time for celebration, connection, and sharing joy. For some, traditional Easter greetings or activities may be overwhelming due to sensory sensitivities. Creating sensory-friendly Easter greetings can make the season more inclusive for everyone.

Whether it’s using quieter tones, soft colors, or tactile-friendly materials in cards or decorations, small adjustments can make a big difference. These thoughtful changes ensure that Easter greetings bring comfort and joy, not stress.

Check out the infographic below for easy tips and ideas to create sensory-friendly Easter greetings this year!

Deepen Your Knowledge with Sensory Friendly 101

Want to advance your sensory-friendly knowledge? Our Sensory Friendly 101 course is your first step. As a Training Membership holder, you’ll gain access to this comprehensive course and many others designed to help you understand sensory differences and create inclusive environments. Learn how to implement sensory-friendly practices in every aspect of life, from home to school to the community.

Ready to make a difference? Join our Training Membership today!