Halloween is a favorite for many kids–costumes, candy, and festive fun. But for children with autism, the unpredictability and sensory overload can make it challenging. At Healing Haven, we integrate holiday prep into therapy to help our clients enjoy the season. Here are six practical tips to help your child have a fun and stress-free Halloween.
1. Make the Unknown Familiar
Start talking about Halloween a few weeks in advance. Use pictures, videos, and social stories to show what to expect–decorations, costumes, and trick-or-treating. If you have photos from past Halloweens, use them to help your child recall and connect with the experience.
2. Practice Wearing Costumes
Costumes can be uncomfortable–tight, itchy, or hot. Let your child try theirs on ahead of time to get used to it. At Healing Haven, we encourage families to send costumes early so we can help kids tolerate them in therapy. If sensory issues are a concern, consider a DIY costume using comfortable clothes. And if your child prefers not to wear one at all, a festive Halloween t-shirt works just fine!
Pro tip: costume or not, consider glow necklaces or light-up shoes to help keep track of your child in the dark.
3. Walk the Neighborhood
Take a stroll through your trick-or-treat route before Halloween night. This helps your child get familiar with decorations and identify houses that might be too spooky. Chat with neighbors to learn if they plan to dress up or use jump scares so you can plan accordingly.
4. Practice Trick-or-Treating
Trick-or-treating can feel confusing–knocking on doors and getting candy from strangers isn’t exactly typical! Practice the steps: knock, say “trick-or-treat,” say “thank you,” and move on. If your child uses an AAC device, make sure the phrases are ready and accessible. You can even download free AAC trick-or-treat bracelets from Teachers Pay Teachers to simplify communication. At Healing Haven, we host a trunk-or-treat event so kids can practice in a safe, supportive setting–it’s a highlight every year for the families we serve, as well as our staff.
5. Pair Up With a Friend
Trick-or-treating with a neurotypical friend or sibling can help your child follow along and feel more confident. It also gives you an extra set of eyes in the Halloween hustle.
6. Plan for the Candy
Have a plan for managing the candy haul–especially if your child has allergies or dietary restrictions. The Teal Pumpkin Project promotes non-food treats for kids with allergies, and it’s a great way to ensure safe options. Talk ahead of time about how much candy your child can eat and when. Setting clear expectations helps avoid meltdowns later.
Flexibility is Key
Remember, Halloween should be fun–not stressful. If trick-or-treating feels overwhelming, consider alternatives like handing out candy, hosting a small gathering, or attending sensory-friendly events like the Detroit Zoo’s Zoo Boo or Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village.
We hope these tips help your family enjoy a Halloween that’s full of fun and free of fear!