How to make birthday parties and celebrations more inclusive for kids with disability

Birthday parties should be fun – a chance for kids to celebrate, eat cake, and make memories. But for kids with disability, they can be really tricky. A loud, crowded party might be overwhelming for a child with sensory sensitivities. A physically active party might leave a child with mobility challenges sitting on the sidelines. And for kids who use AAC devices, conversations and games can feel harder to join in on.

If you’ve ever found yourself hesitating over a party invite – whether you’re the host or the guest – know that with a little thought and planning, birthday parties can be more inclusive, making sure every child feels welcome and able to participate in a way that works for them.

Here are some ways we can make parties better for all kids, so no one gets left out of the fun.

Understanding Different Needs

Every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Some kids need space to move around, while others need a quiet place to retreat if things get overwhelming. Some need help with food, others need help with communication. Understanding these differences is the first step to making sure a party is inclusive.

Here are some common challenges and ways to make parties more accessible:

• Physical accessibility – Can kids using wheelchairs or walkers move around freely? Are there stairs or uneven ground that might be a barrier?
• Speech and communication – Can non-speaking kids or those with speech delays join in? Are there ways to help them communicate and be part of conversations?
• Sensory sensitivities – Will loud music, flashing lights, or lots of activity be overwhelming? Is there a quieter space for kids who need a break?
• Motor skills – Are the activities and games adaptable so all kids can participate, regardless of physical ability?
• Food considerations – Are there safe food options for kids with allergies, feeding tubes, or sensory-based food aversions?

Understanding these needs isn’t about making a party “perfect”—it’s about making sure all kids feel welcome.

Why Inclusion Matters

It’s not just about making sure a child with a disability has a good time (though that’s very important). It’s about creating a culture where all kids – disabled or not – grow up seeing inclusion as normal.

Studies show that when kids with disabilities are included, they develop stronger social and emotional skills. And for their peers? They learn empathy, adaptability, and how to connect with people who experience the world differently. Inclusion benefits everyone.

Ways to Make Parties More Inclusive

1. Start with a conversation

The simplest way to make a party more inclusive? Just ask.

Whether you’re the host or your child is attending a party, a quick chat with the other parents can help make sure everyone is set up for success.

• “Hey, I’d love to make sure [child’s name] can fully enjoy the party. Is there anything I should keep in mind?”
• “My child uses a wheelchair—do you know if the venue is accessible?”
• “Are you okay if I bring some food that’s safe for my child?”

Most parents appreciate being asked and are happy to share what might help. And if you’re the guest? A heads-up about your child’s needs can help the host feel more confident about including them.

2. Choose an accessible venue

Not all party locations work for all kids. A trampoline park or laser tag might be great for some, but a nightmare for others. A backyard party could be fun – unless there’s no way for a wheelchair to navigate the space.

If you’re hosting, consider:

✔️ Accessibility – Are there ramps, clear pathways, and accessible bathrooms?
✔️ Noise levels – Will loud music, big crowds, or echoey spaces be overwhelming?
✔️ Seating options – Are there comfortable places for kids who may need a rest?
✔️ Indoor vs. outdoor balance – Having both options gives kids flexibility.

Sometimes, small changes (like rearranging furniture to create more space) can make a big impact.

3. Adapt games and activities

Not all party games are disability-friendly—but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun! A few simple tweaks can make sure everyone gets to play.

Instead of…
Musical chairs (which requires fast movement)
Piñatas (which require physical coordination)

Try…

Craft stations – Let kids create something fun at their own pace.
Photo booths with props – Easy, inclusive fun for all abilities.
Scavenger hunts – Can be adapted for different mobility levels and ages.
Interactive storytime or shows – Keeps kids engaged without requiring physical participation.

For kids who use AAC devices, you can even prep some party-related phrases ahead of time – like “Happy Birthday!” or “I love cake!”—so they can easily join in.

4. Create a sensory-friendly space

Sometimes, birthday parties can get really overwhelming – especially for kids with autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivities. A quiet, sensory-friendly corner can be a lifesaver. You don’t need to do anything fancy. A few bean bags, some soft lighting, maybe a few calming toys, and a place for kids to take a break when they need it is all it takes. It’s a simple way to give everyone a chance to recharge without feeling like they have to leave the party entirely.

🔹 Dim the lights
🔹 Offer noise-canceling headphones
🔹 Set up a cozy space with pillows and fidget toys
🔹 Keep some calming activities available (like books or colouring)

5. Be mindful of food

Food can be a big stressor at parties – whether it’s allergies, sensory aversions, or feeding challenges. But making food inclusive doesn’t have to be complicated.

✅ Offer a variety—soft foods, crunchy foods, dairy-free, gluten-free, etc.
✅ Label food clearly so parents can check ingredients.
✅ Let parents bring their own food if needed, no questions asked.

For kids with feeding tubes or very specific dietary needs, knowing they can bring their own food without awkwardness can be a huge relief.

6. Incorporate communication tools & visuals

If the birthday child or any guests use communication devices or AAC tools, it’s nice to make sure those tools are integrated into the party fun. For example, picture-based games or visual prompts that allow all kids to participate in conversations and activities can really help. It makes everyone feel included, and it’s just another way to keep the fun going for everyone.

The Goal Isn’t Perfection—It’s Inclusion

Not every party will be perfectly accessible. And that’s okay! What really matters is effort – taking small steps to make sure all kids feel included.

At the end of the day, birthday parties aren’t just about cake and balloons. They’re about friendships, memories, and making sure every child gets to be part of the fun.

And when we start thinking about inclusivity in birthday parties, we start thinking about it in everyday life, too.