Hallowe'en can be a stressful holiday, especially for neurodivergent children. From flashing lights and sudden noises to scary costumes and creepy decorations, there is a lot going on!
To make Hallowe'en less stressful and more enjoyable for you and your child, try these tips from our occupational therapist Chris Galvin.
Before you go out:
Plan the route ahead of time. Walk or drive the route so your child knows where they will be going. It’s so different when it’s dark.
If your child has known sensory needs, such as the need to swing, try to provide that input ahead of time to help regulate their nervous system as much as possible.
Encourage your child to eat prior to going out even if it is earlier than normal. Protein and carbs are important, especially before sugary snacks.
If you see it is getting to be too much even before you leave, suggest that you and your child hand out candy instead. If that is still too much, turn your lights out and cuddle with your child.
Take pictures before you leave so you have some positive memories.
Dressing for the occasion:
Avoid loose clothes that tickle.
Avoid bulky clothes, such as snowsuits, that are uncomfortable especially in the crotch, underarms, elbows, or knees.
If it’s cold, wear tight stretchy clothes underneath the costume, such as biking clothes.
Make-up can feel yucky so use as little as possible. Masks are also hard because of the elastic holding them in place. They also move and slide and can therefore be unsafe.
While trick-or-treating:
Try to stay away from flashing lights or noise machines that can be overwhelming.
Use a wagon or stroller even if your kiddo is older — you want to make it work for them.
Bring a weighted backpack no more than 5–10% of your child's body weight. If it can be part of the costume, even better! Or just use their school backpack with a few cans or a small bag of rice.
Respect your child’s wishes. If they want to go home, go home. If you see they are starting to get overwhelmed, find a way to end the excursion early, perhaps by suggesting going home to see if there are any kids at your house.
Don't push it, two or three houses, or 10 to 15 minutes, may be enough.
If you have other children, join another family so that you can let your other kids continue while you and your neurodiverse child go home and check their candy.
Arrange to leave a car at the end of your planned route, or possibly close to the end in case you don’t make it all the way. That way your child has an end in sight and you don’t need to walk all the way home.
Most of all have fun and try to make it work for your child. It might not go according to plan, but don’t beat yourself up over it. Hopefully these tips will help you create positive experiences and happy memories.
Happy Hallowe'en!
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