For many children, sports day is filled with excitement - ice cream, outdoor fun, and a welcome break from the classroom. But for children with additional sensory needs, the experience can feel overwhelming rather than enjoyable.
As a parent of neurodivergent children, I’ve learned that busy school events require thoughtful preparation. Over the past 10 years of sports days, I’ve picked up strategies that help set my children up for success - and I hope they can help you too.
Be Your Child’s Advocate
Sports day can be a wonderful opportunity for children to celebrate their abilities and have fun. However, the combination of loud noises, large crowds, and an unpredictable environment can quickly lead to sensory overload.
Don’t hesitate to speak up and request adjustments that support your child. Small changes can make a big difference, such as:
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Extra processing time between activities
- Access to a quiet or sensory-friendly space
- Sensory supports like ear defenders or fidget toys
It’s also helpful to have open conversations with your child’s school ahead of time.
Consider asking:
- Would my child cope better going first or last?
- Are there specific events that are more accessible or enjoyable for them?
- Could supportive seating, like a wiggle cushion, help while they wait?
Advocating for your child isn’t about changing the day - it’s about giving them the best chance to enjoy it.
Be Prepared
Preparation may not eliminate every challenge, but it can significantly reduce anxiety and uncertainty.
Try to familiarise yourself with the schedule for the day, including planned breaks. It’s also worth asking if there’s a designated area your child can use if they need a movement or sensory break.
Personally, I never attend sports day without my trusty Learning SPACE drawstring bag, filled with our go-to sensory essentials. Having familiar tools on hand can provide comfort and help regulate emotions when things feel overwhelming.
Follow Their Lead
Even with the best preparation, unexpected challenges can arise. What works during practice doesn’t always translate to the real event.
For example, your child might enjoy races during school time, but find the noise and atmosphere of the actual event too intense. Being flexible and responsive on the day is key.
Every child is different, and their needs can vary from moment to moment. One of my daughters, who has a strong PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) profile, found sports day too overwhelming in her early years so we opted to give it a miss when she was little. Meanwhile, my youngest - usually full of energy - felt intimidated by the crowds and benefited from a shorter day and smaller group setting for sports day. I sat with him and he enjoyed chasing bubbles between events.
These experiences reinforced an important lesson: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Trust Yourself
You know your child better than anyone else. Pay attention to their cues, stay flexible, and don’t be afraid to step in when they need support.
Sports day doesn’t have to look the same for every child. With the right preparation and understanding, it can become an experience where your child feels safe, supported, and able to enjoy the day in their own way.
