Creating a Sensory-Safe Halloween for Autistic and Non-Verbal Children (Part 1)

The allure of Halloween is undeniable. From adorable costumes to trick-or-treating adventures, it’s a festival that promises fun and memories. However, for families of autistic and non-verbal children, Halloween can present unique challenges, mainly due to sensory sensitivities and unfamiliar situations. But with some thoughtful preparation, it’s entirely possible to provide a fun and sensory-safe Halloween experience for all. In this two-part series, we aim to help families create a Halloween that’s both enjoyable and sensory-safe.

Understanding Sensory Sensitivities:

The world can be a sensory overload for kids with autism. As described by Dr. Temple Grandin in her seminal work, Thinking in Pictures, autistic individuals often perceive sensory stimuli more intensely than others. Hence, it’s crucial to be aware and accommodating of these sensitivities.

Places to Avoid:

• Loud Environments: Many Halloween events feature loud music or sudden noise effects. SensoryFriendly.net recommends avoiding such environments or preparing the child in advance if they must encounter them.
• Crowded Areas: Large gatherings or trick-or-treating during peak times can be overwhelming. Consider earlier or alternative routes.
• Unexpected Scares: Haunted houses or areas with jump scares can be traumatic. It’s always a good idea to research in advance and choose kid-friendly zones.

Activities to Embrace:

• Quiet Celebrations: A blog post from The Art of Autism highlights the beauty of small, intimate Halloween celebrations that are under one’s control.
• Structured Activities: Activities like pumpkin carving or Halloween crafts can offer a structured way to celebrate. This structure can be comforting to many kids with autism.
• Costume Choices: It’s crucial to ensure that costumes are comfortable. Autistic advocate Carly Fleischmann suggests involving children in the choice, ensuring that it aligns with their sensory preferences. Check out more sensory friendly ideas on this Instagram page.

Incorporating these strategies can be a game-changer for families. As the adage from the autism community says: “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” Keeping this in mind helps us remember the importance of individualized strategies.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we delve into sensory-safe home decorations, foods, and more games!