If you're planning to pass out candy this Halloween, remember that the CDC now estimates that 1 in 36 children in the US has autism. It's likely that a child with a disability - whether it's visible or not - may stop by your house. Follow these tips to ensure no one leaves your door empty-handed.
- Whether you’re putting up scary zombies or a smiling jack-o-lantern, avoid flashing lights and loud music. These things can be overwhelming to children with sensory-processing needs or could even cause seizures.
- Make your home accessible. If you have steps leading to your door or a long or uphill driveway, set up a trick-or-treating station closer to the road so children with mobility needs can reach you without struggle. Make it extra fun by encorporating your "station" into your costume!
- Didn’t hear “Trick-or-treat” or “Thank you?” A child may be non-verbal or nervous in this unfamiliar setting. Try asking questions that can be answered by pointing, nodding, or showing the answer.
- Make sure everyone can get a treat by offering nonfood items. It’s hard to anticipate allergies and diet restrictions. By offering things that aren’t food-based, no one has to leave empty-handed.
- No costume? No problem! Costumes can be itchy, restrictive, and overwhelming. Intellectual and developmental disabilities can make some people particularly sensitive to this. It doesn’t mean they don’t want to participate.
- Be patient if a child is taking a long time choosing what to take. It may take some children longer to process all the options and make the right choice for themselves.
- Let that extra piece of candy slip. Some children with disabilities may have less developed motor skills. It can be hard to grab just one item from a bowl full of goodies.
- Halloween is for all ages. Maturity levels or the interests of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities don’t always align with their age. No one is too old for trick-or-treating!
- Many disabilities are not visible. While identifying factors like teal and blue pumpkins have become popular ways of identifying a child with special needs or a disability, no one has to disclose their disability to you. Treat all your trick-or-treaters with dignity, respect, and patience.
If you're planning on taking your child out trick-or-treating, follow these tips to ensure there's nothing spooky about this Halloween.
- Help familiarize your child with what trick-or-treating may be like by practicing with a neighbor or at your own house. Rehearse going up to a door, knocking or ringing the doorbell, and asking for candy in whatever way your child is able.
- Set your trick-or-treating route in advance. Take a stroll around your neighborhood before Halloween to determine the best route for your family. Taking things like distance from your house, challenging driveways or walkways, and intense decorations into account can make things easier for Halloween night.
- Walk your route a few days before Halloween to help familiarize your child with it.
- Encourage your child to try on their costume in advance. Let them wear their new costume around the house to get used to it. If something is uncomfortable, make modifications.
- Before trick-or-treating, discuss and set rules on how much candy your child can eat and when. Clear expectations will help ensure there's no misunderstandings later.
- Let your child stop when they want to. Even if you only visit a house or two, take a break or head home if your child wants to.
- Make sure your child has identifying information or has memorized your address and phone number. If your neighborhood is popular on Halloween or you're visiting a crowded trunk-or-treat site, it's important that your child has memorized important information or has it visible on them if you get separated.
- Don’t underestimate your neighbors. Talk to your neighbors before Halloween night to explain any needs your child may have or modifications you've made to their trick-or-treating. We're sure they'll be happy to help make Halloween a fun night for your family.
- It’s OK to stay home. Trick-or-treaters need doors to knock on! Passing out candy is a great alternative to heading out to trick-or-treat. You can also create your own Halloween traditions that fit your family’s needs, like a special movie night, baking gruesome goodies, or playing Halloween-themed games!
