Sensory Friendly Halloween
Halloween doesn’t have to be scary. Here are some tips for a sensory friendly Halloween!
Plan Ahead
Have a family calendar? Write down upcoming events.
Talk about what to expect during trick-or-treating or other festive events.
Use social stories or videos to help prepare.
If trick-or-treating, plan your route and take walks so the route is familiar. Will you need a flashlight?
Scope out the neighborhood for scary decorations to avoid if needed.
Costumes
Buy costumes early to allow your child to practice getting use to it.
Pick a costume that is lightweight. It’s still hot in Arizona!
If costumes are overwhelming, try pajamas or a themed shirt instead.
Wear comfortable shoes!
Bring an easy to carry bag to collect your treats.
Communication
Practice expressive speech terms.
Create picture cards, a treat bag or a sign with common terms.
AAC user? Program event specific words.
Everyone communicates differently- Do what works best for your loved one!
Do not feel pressured to share your child’s diagnosis with strangers. Kindness is free!
Practice
Attend sensory friendly events. Many events are held before Halloween to give your child time to practice before the big day.
Check out our social media pages for community partner events! Find us on Facebook and Instagram.
Role play: Practice at home and teach that we don’t go inside strangers’ homes. Great therapy goal!
Festive Treats
Food allergies and aversions can make participation challenging. Consider handing out small trinkets like toys, bubbles, pencils, stickers or glow sticks.
Practice making choices - sometimes there are so many treats to choose from at one stop.
Does your child only like one particular treat? Provide your family, friends, neighbors with a special stash just for them!
Before events, set limits on how much candy your child can eat.
Blue Bucket?
Only if you want to! It’s your choice.
An autism diagnosis doesn’t mean you MUST follow this trend.
Not everyone understands what the color is meant for.
Everyone should be included and be treated with respect no matter what!
Sensory Stimulation
Create an area that is safe and calming if you need to retreat. Dim the lights, play gentle music.
Manage sensory triggers - avoid things that may be overwhelming like certain lights, sounds, smells, large crowds, textures, etc.
Offer headphones, fidgets and other items that may help calm an overstimulated sensory system.
No Pressure
Don’t feel pressured to have the perfect night.
Some kids and families aren’t into Halloween and that’s okay!
Listen to your child’s needs and validate their feelings.
If the night doesn’t go as planned, there’s no shame in calling it a night early and/or snuggling up at home with a favorite activity and treats instead.
Remember: Everyone’s journey and needs are unique. You’re doing great!
Happy Halloween!
*Find these tips on our social media with some cute slides to share.
