A Sensory-Friendly Trick-or-Treat Experience

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With Halloween just a few days away, it’s a great time to start preparing for all the spooky festivities around the corner. While trick-or-treating is an exciting activity and surely the highlight of Halloween for many children, it’s always a good idea to take into account any extra preparation that may be necessary in order to make sure the experience is just as enjoyable for kids on the autism spectrum as well, and to ensure that it goes smoothly. 

In an interview with CitySunTimes, Dr. Sharyn Kerr, chief clinical and administrative officer at BlueSprig Pediatrics, talks about a new sensory-friendly alternative to traditional trick-or-treating.

“While many people look forward to the sounds, sights and tastes of Halloween, this time of year can be challenging for those with autism and other sensory differences,” says Kerr.

In hopes of implementing this alternative solution to make the experience more enjoyable for kids with Autism, BlueSprig Pediatrics has recommended hosting a “Sensory-Friendly Trick-or-Treat Hour.” 

What’s a Sensory-Friendly Trick-or-Treat Hour? Whether it be only a few houses, or an entire block, neighborhoods could band together and agree to offer a coordinated hour or two of trick-or-treating for kids minus the light-up decorations and overwhelming sounds. By posting on neighborhood boards like NextDoor or Facebook groups and noting which houses/areas will offer the Sensory-Friendly Trick-or-Treat Hour, the community can promote the agreed hour/hours to families who may be searching for sensory-friendly solutions.

Here are a few extra tips that Kerr suggests to make trick-or-treating more enjoyable:

  • Create a social story that outlines the process of trick-or-treating and read it with your child in the weeks leading up to Halloween.

  • Practice trick-or-treating by setting up trick-or-treat “stations” behind various doors in the house. You can also slowly expose your child to the various sounds and sights they may encounter while trick-or-treating.

  • When selecting a Halloween costume, choose something comfortable, face masks can be difficult for children with sensory challenges.

  • Invite some siblings or peers who can act as role models to tag along when trick-or-treating. 

  • To avoid your child getting tired and overwhelmed, set a limit for your trick-or-treating time.

Nicole Baynehalloween, Holidays, trick or treating, sensory friendly