With Halloween coming in a few days, families are expectedly making their preparations for trick or treat. But for families with children with autism, Halloween might become a source of stress. What can parents or caregivers do to make this a memorable and fun event?
Halloween activities for children with autism might trigger sensory problems because the event isn't part of a routine. Putting on costumes or going out for trick or treat might become frustrating or cause anxiety for children with autism.
Experts advise that for Halloween costumes, it's best to keep the preparations simple. Do away with masks and elaborate costumes because its texture, colors or scent could become irritating to children with autism. Ahead of the actual day, try holding a "dress rehearsal" to ease off any discomfort that a child with autism might have, the Autism Society recommends.
It might also be a good idea to have "pre-Halloween visits" to neighbors' houses or stores selling Halloween goodies so that children with autism will be familiar with the environment. On day itself, schedule trick or treats in the early hours of the evening as the dark might also be a trigger.
If there is more than one child in the family, make sure to have an alternate plan in case their sibling with autism would like to bail out from the activities earlier. Discuss plans with your partner, relative or caregiver or include the other kids too.
"The reality is that getting into costume and being out in the dark with other children in costume might create too much of a stressor for some children with autism," behaviorist Dr. Jeffrey Robinson said, per Patch. For children with autism missing out on traditional Halloween activities could actually work better. But for these kids to still enjoy the day, giving them something to do, such as helping out with the Halloween preparations, decorations and crafting, would be good for them as well.
