Embracing a Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive Halloween: Tips for All Families

Every year, as October rolls around, kids can hardly contain their anticipation for Halloween – a delightful mix of costumes, candy, and controlled chaos. But for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) or sensory processing difficulties, these traditional Halloween customs can be overwhelming (How to Make Halloween a Treat for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), 2021).

One in every thirteen children in the U.S. has a food allergy, while a large number of kids with autism experience sensory processing challenges (DeVault, 2019). These conditions can cause anxiety and discomfort during Halloween when the norms fly out of the window – replaced by creepy music, unfamiliar faces, bright lights, and excessive sugary treats.

The good news? With adequate preparation, a little creativity, and an inclusive spirit, families can ensure a successful Halloween for all children, including those with special needs. Here’s how you can navigate Halloween better and make it an enjoyable, inclusive affair.

First and foremost, it’s critical to prepare your child for what’s to come. Start by discussing Halloween customs in a non-threatening way. You could read books or watch movies that give visual cues of what the holiday entails – costumes, trick-or-treating, and the assortment of decorations. This open conversation can help take the “scary” out of Halloween and ease your child’s fears.

Children with ASD might have a hard time with costumes; they can find the different textures and fit uncomfortable. To tackle this challenge, let your child try on the costume well in advance and play in it to get used to the feel. Simpler alternatives such as decorated hoodies or character pajamas which are worn over regular clothes can also be considered.

The trick-or-treat tradition can bring about its own set of challenges for children with disabilities. To ensure your child is comfortable with it, we recommend organizing a practice run in your neighborhood. Neighbors can contribute by pretending to hand out candy, allowing your child to familiarize themselves with the process (Priest, 2017). 

On the inclusion front, we recommend participating in initiatives like The Teal Pumpkin Project, a food-allergy awareness campaign that encourages households to offer non-food treats such as stickers, crayons, glow bracelets, or mini slinkies. This allows children with food allergies, diabetes, or feeding tubes to enjoy trick-or-treating without the risk (Carson, 2021).

Additionally, consider the concept of the Switch Witch – where a fictional witch swaps the bulk of Halloween candy for a toy, addressing concerns around food allergies and excessive sugar consumption. 

Communication is also a key aspect. For children who are nonverbal or have a physical disability, there are handy options such as personalized bags or t-shirts with a friendly message like, “Hello. I have special needs. I cannot say trick-or-treat but I am trying!” 

Finally, remember that not all trick-or-treaters enjoy flashing lights or loud music; they can be triggers for those with sensory sensitivities. Keep your Halloween decor tastefully low-key to create a sensory-friendly environment (Stay Safe and Stay Spooky | Michigan Trauma Coalition, n.d.). 

In the spirit of awareness and accessibility, consider displaying signs of your commitment towards an inclusive trick-or-treating experience. Teal pumpkins or lawn signs can let everyone know that your house is a safe and welcoming spot for all (Carson, 2021). 

Halloween is a delightful holiday, filled with fun and a bit of harmless fright. But it’s essential that we strive to ensure it’s an enjoyable experience for everyone. So this year, let’s make Halloween a little less tricky and a lot more treat-filled for all our little ghouls, superheroes, and princesses!

REFERENCES

Carson, L. M. (2021b, October 26). 6 Tips to Make Halloween More Inclusive and Accessible for Trick-or-Treaters. Easter Seals Canada. https://easterseals.ca/en/accessible-halloween-tips/#:~:text=Describe%20or%20show%20trick%2Dor

DeVault, N. (2019, October 9). How to Manage a Chronic Illness in the Summer Heat – AmeriDisability. Ameridisability. https://www.ameridisability.com/how-to-make-halloween-inclusive-for-all-trick-or-treaters/

How to Make Halloween a Treat for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). LEARN Behavioral.https://learnbehavioral.com/blog/how-to-make-halloween-a-treat-for-kids-with-asdlearnbehavior. (2021b, October 15). 

Priest, R. (2017a, October 27). More Merry than Scary: 11 Halloween Safety Tips for Parents. Www.michiganmedicine.org. https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/more-merry-scary-11-halloween-safety-tips-parents

Stay Safe and Stay Spooky | Michigan Trauma Coalition. (n.d.). Retrieved October 5, 2023, from https://mitrauma.org/stay-safe-and-stay-spooky/