Our nannies have encountered ‘difficult’ nights all over the world. From Halloween in New Orleans to Milad al-Nabi in Saudi Arabia. But the one that tops the bill in the UK is Bonfire Night. It’s not the events themselves that are a problem, but what happens after the local bonfire or family party is over and the fireworks keep going … and going … and going.
Legal facts and fireworks
The Fireworks Regulations Act, 2004 says its an offence to use adult explosives between 11pm and 7am. Save for ‘permitted nights’ which include November 5 (fireworks allowed until 12am) and Diwali, New Year’s and Chinese New Year (allowed until 1am). Those who break regulations could earn an £80 penalty notice. Or even made to pay a fine of up to £5,000. Which is great, but who wants to call the police about their neighbours? It can seem trivial and event like spoilsport behaviour.
Planning ahead makes Bonfire Night fun
Working with your nanny can allow you to create the right environment for fireworks.
Countdown calendars give your children an understanding when bonfire night happens and what to expect. Bedtime stories such as Hovis the Hedgehog and action poems are great. These give children a chance to understand what’s going to happen and to act out the sounds of the fireworks. This prepares very little ones for noise and excitement. We like this one by Elizabeth Clare:
Zooming, whirring, whizzing round.
Fireworks raining on the ground.
Golden fountains, silver rain.
Spurting high – then low again.
Gold and silver in the air.
Don’t stand too close and do take care.
Tomato soup and chestnut brown.
Bangers jumping up and down.
- Watching videos of firework displays can help too and this can be a playtime activity. Drawing fireworks and playing ‘Simon Says’ with firework movements can bring this festival to life. Nanny can ensure children learn a little of the history (but purely what’s appropriate for their age, it’s a pretty grisly story).
- If you’re planning a family event, consider quiet fireworks! Yes, they exist (they are also called low noise fireworks) and they are easy to buy online. It can make a huge difference to the enjoyment of nervous children if they are able to enjoy the beauty of fireworks. Without the screeching and bangs that can be so distressing. Children with asthma, bronchitis and autism spectrum may find it easier to watch fireworks from indoors. It’s important for families to ensure that this is treated as just as valid a way to enjoy the night as being outdoors.
- Once the evening’s fun is over. A white noise machine or soothing music played in the bedroom can really help children settle down. Our Elite nanny team suggest that perhaps twenty minutes of sleep music. There are loads of different versions on offer, from CDs to youtube playlists. Either every night for a week before Bonfire Night can help children learn the cues for sleep that then allow the music to lull them throughout the night.
And once the Bonfire is out and the evening over. Remember that children will often feel deflated and empty. So planning something for the following night such as an exciting board game or a fascinating play activity.