Bonfire Night can be magical for families, but it’s important to keep little ones warm, safe and calm amid the noise and excitement. From sparkler safety to ear protection and cosy sleepwear, here’s how to enjoy the fireworks while keeping your baby or toddler comfortable and secure.
1. Be Careful with Sparklers
Sparklers are beautiful but can be dangerous in small hands. They burn at incredibly high temperatures, so children under five shouldn’t handle them directly.
If your toddler wants to join in the fun:
➤ Always supervise closely
➤ Make sure they wear gloves
➤ Hold the sparkler at arm’s length, away from face, clothes and hair
➤ Have a bucket of cold water nearby to cool used sparklers safely
A safer alternative for younger children is waving glow sticks or LED wands, which create the same excitement without any risk.
2. Protect Little Ears
Fireworks can be thrilling to watch but extremely loud for young children. Babies in particular can find the bangs and whizzes unsettling.
To keep their delicate ears safe:
➤ If you’re watching fireworks at home, view them from indoors through a window to reduce the noise
➤ For outdoor displays, use baby ear defenders or earmuffs to soften the sound
➤ Keep a calm, reassuring tone - your own reaction helps them feel safe
A gentle lullaby or white noise at bedtime afterwards can help them settle once the fireworks are over.
3. Keep Them Warm and Cosy
By early November, evenings can turn cold quickly. Whether you’re staying indoors or stepping outside briefly, keeping your baby or toddler snug is key.
If you’re at home, pop your little one into a winter sleeping bag to maintain warmth safely through the night.
Slumbersac’s 3.5 TOG baby sleeping bags are ideal for rooms below 18°C, offering cosy insulation without overheating.
For slightly warmer rooms, choose a 2.5 TOG option instead.
Our sleeping bags with sleeves add an extra layer of warmth while still allowing airflow - the sleeves are not padded, in line with baby sleep safety guidelines.
4. Make It a Calm, Cosy Evening
If your baby is too young to enjoy fireworks, you can still mark the occasion with comfort:
➤ Watch from the window with soft lights and a blanket
➤ Read a firework-themed story or play a lullaby
➤ Enjoy a quiet night together once the excitement outside fades
Bonfire Night doesn’t have to mean missing out. A peaceful evening indoors can be just as special.
FAQs About Bonfire Night with Babies
Can babies watch fireworks?
Yes, but keep a safe distance and protect their ears with baby earmuffs or by watching from indoors.
Are sparklers safe for toddlers?
Sparklers should not be given to children under five. Always supervise older toddlers and use gloves.
What TOG sleeping bag should I use in November?
A 3.5 TOG sleeping bag is perfect for rooms below 18°C; for milder nights, use a 2.5 TOG.
Can I take my baby outside on Bonfire Night?
Briefly, yes, but do ensure they’re wrapped up warmly and stay away from smoke, fireworks and crowds.
