Halloween 2020 was different than usual for most of us because of COVID precautions. This year, many kids will be returning to trick-or-treating in some form or another on Halloween. This is an exciting time for most kids. For children who have special needs or sensory processing difficulties, it can be exciting, but also demanding, overwhelming, and challenging. Here are a few tips to help make their trick-or-treating a success:
- Make sure your child is comfortable in their costume. Have them practice wearing it before Halloween.
- Prepare and prime visually. Visual supports — such as a social story, a trick-or-treating schedule of events, videos, or photos — can help them know what to expect that night. It’s also a good idea to talk about costumes, make-up and the difference between pretend and real, especially for children who are very literal. And make sure to take pictures while out trick-or-treating — they can be used to visually prepare for Halloween next year.
- Practice ahead of time. Your child may have gotten the opportunity to practice here in our clinic during their therapy session this week. You can also role play the Trick-or-treating exchange at a very familiar neighbor’s house or even using rooms in your own house to give them a chance to rehearse ahead of time.
- Be flexible. Ultimately, the goal is for them to have fun. Even if costumes are taken off and trick-or-treating doesn’t go as planned, adapt and follow your child’s lead. Maybe you end up just trick-or-treating around your house, having a family night in with Halloween games, or your child might enjoy staying home and being the one to help pass out candy.
- Have a calm down strategy or two ready to go if you notice the beginning signs they are getting overwhelmed. It can be as simple as a few deep squeezes from Mommy or Daddy, a break to have a snack, or a few deep breaths. It would also be helpful to make sure they are going into Halloween night in a calm and regulated state.
Other considerations
- If multiple children are going trick-or-treating, bring a few favorite activities for your child to engage in while riding along throughout the night if they decide not to actively trick-or-treat.
- Bring a change of clothes and snacks
- The weather can also be a bit unpredictable around Halloween, so it’s important to be ready for any scenario. If the weather causes a change of plans, prepare your child for the change the best you can.
All of us here at Therapy at Play wish you and your family a Happy and Safe Halloween!
