Public Outings Preparation

Going out in public is so stressful you avoid it entirely

Steps

  1. Prepare a social story about where you're going and what to expect
  2. Pack a sensory kit: ear defenders, fidgets, sunglasses, snacks, water
  3. Plan an exit strategy before you go: 'If it's too much, we'll leave'
  4. Visit during quieter times (early morning, weekdays) when possible
  5. Keep the outing short at first and build up duration over time

What you need

Social story, sensory kit bag, exit plan, realistic expectations

Why it works

Neurodivergent children find public spaces overwhelming because they're unpredictable, noisy, and sensory-rich. Preparation removes the unpredictability, a sensory kit manages the overload, and having an exit plan reduces anxiety because the child knows they won't be trapped.

Age guidance

Relevant from age 2 onwards. Younger children need more sensory support; older children benefit from being involved in the planning.

Real-world example

A parent started packing ear defenders, a fidget, and a snack in a small bag every time they left the house. Just knowing the bag was there made their child calmer about outings. They called it the 'adventure bag' and the child started asking for it themselves.

Troubleshooting

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