Some parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, sometimes shy away from taking their children to movie theaters. Even if you are concerned with how well the experience might go, it is still a fun activity that you should keep on your summer to-do list. With careful planning ahead, you can ensure that your child has a fun experience. Here are some tips to help.  

Search for Sensory-Friendly Movies

Undoubtedly, your child wants to see one of the upcoming animated movies heading to the theaters. Unfortunately, some of the visual and audio effects in the movies can lead to negative reactions, such as anxiety or headaches. It is possible, though, for your child to see animated films without triggering any type of negative reaction.

Look for animated movies that are sensory-friendly. Sensory-friendly movies are those that do not contain overly stimulating images, such as bright, flashing colors. The sound effects on the movie might be more muted than other movies in the animated genre. 3-D movies tend to not be sensory-friendly and avoiding them can have a positive impact on your child's movie-going experience. You also need to check the movie's warnings to determine if there are any flashing images or noises that could be triggering. 

Depending on the area in which you live, you might even find a theater that offers sensory-friendly viewing for all movies. These theaters offer such services as the lights remaining on during the film. The simple act of leaving the lights on can reduce the impact on any triggering visual effects in the movie.

Pick the Right Time

Crowded movie theaters can sometimes create an uncomfortable space for special needs children. Not only do you have to worry about how your child will respond to being in an enclosed space with other people, but you also have to consider how any negative reaction from your child might impact others. 

To lessen the chances that your child will feel uncomfortable in the theater, try to pick a time that the theater will be less crowded. For instance, avoid opening weeks for movies. Try waiting until a couple of weeks have passed and then go. You should also consider going to the earliest movie offered to avoid big crowds. If your child needs to move around during the room, the fewer people in the room, the better. 

Take Your Own Snacks

Sugary snacks and drinks are generally not a good idea for all kids. Sugar can cause children to be hyper and in a movie theater, this might not be the best behavior. Since your child has ADHD, he or she might have a heightened response to too much sugar.

Contact the theater beforehand and explain your situation to a manager. Ask the manager if you can bring your own snacks from home for your child. If you are attending a theater that offers sensory-friendly movies, it is likely that there is already a policy in place that would allow you to bring snacks. Contact a company like Rotoscopers for more info.

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