Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in the United States. For months, children and adults alike plan the perfect costume, dreaming of being a princess, superhero, magical creature, or anything their hearts desire. Halloween movies are a constant on Freeform, stores are bursting at the seams with decorations, and fun holiday and seasonal activities are being planned throughout our area. However, Halloween isn’t necessarily fun or easy for everyone. Some children have dietary restrictions or allergies, some struggle with sensory or mobility issues, and some battle anxiety or communication problems. Here are a few ways we can ensure Halloween is fun for everyone.
Dietary Restriction/Allergy-Friendly Halloween Tips:
- Consider handing out small, non-food treats such as bubbles, spider rings, or glow bracelets.
- Purchase candy without nuts.
- Keep a few non-food treats on hand for any trick-or-treaters with allergies or dietary restrictions.
- Take part in The Teal Pumpkin Project. Find details about the project here: https://connectingforkids.org/Teal-Pumpkin-Project
Sensory-Friendly Halloween Tips:
- Strobe lights, fog machines, loud sound effects, and motion-sensored decorations can be overwhelming to children and even more so to those who struggle with sensory issues. By limiting these triggers, we can help avoid sensory overload.
- Be aware of sensory overload. Children aren’t always aware of their limits, so keep an eye out for signs of sensory overload to avoid any potential incidents.
Anxiety-Friendly Halloween Tips:
- Help prepare your child by using Halloween stories, discuss the fact that the creatures are not real, and walk your planned path in the daytime.
- Keep all pets inside.
- When giving out candy, make sure the area is well-lit and accessible, and let children know that it’s okay to be afraid.
- Scary, motion-activated decorations should be saved for adult parties.
Halloween should be fun, not fearsome, for kids, so let’s be mindful of everyone this Halloween season. Happy haunting!
