Halloween can be fun, or it can be a night of fright for parents and kids with sensory challenges.
Here are some tricks for making your Halloween a treat!🎃
1.) Talk to your child about your Halloween plans. Details might include places you’ll go, who you’re going with, things they might see (costumes, spooky decorations), ways to stay safe, and how to say “trick or treat.” You can also read social stories with your child; here’s a list of some free stories about Halloween!
2.) Sensory-proof your child’s costume. Allow your child to try on his or her costume and wear it for an extended period of time (ex: 1 hour) to ensure they will feel comfortable for the duration of whatever Halloween event you attend. Common irritations can include tags, elastic, Velcro closures, or certain fabric textures.
3.) Opt for smaller events. You might also choose to stay home & pass out candy, or pick 1 familiar street for trick-or-treating. This decreases the likelihood of sensory overload or meltdowns.
4.) Know your child’s limits. Be mindful of his or her signals indicating overstimulation and fatigue. Have a backup plan if your child becomes upset, especially if you’re with a group of other children.
Do you have other tips? Let us know how you survive Halloween!