6 Halloween Tips for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders

The feeling of Halloween elicits excitement for most kids. It means showing off new costumes, staying up late and enduring a sugar overdose at the end of the night! 

While having a child with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) may offer challenges during this time of year, the same feeling of enthusiasm doesn’t have to be lost. 

Neither Autism Speaks, nor Kathryn Smith, RH, DrPH, of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles want you, or your family to miss out on the fun. Here are some highlights of Smith’s tips that our patron, Avita Nova Academy, believe you should be most aware of:

Tip #1 Try the costume on before the big night

The way the costume feels for your child will be of the utmost importance. If you’re buying this year’s Halloween costume, be aware that one size does not always fit all; if the costume is too bulky, too tight, or just all-around too uncomfortable the night has the potential to be ruined, so make it a high priority to try the costume on at least a week before Halloween night. 

Tip #2 Try on the costume – SEVERAL TIMES

Once you purchase or make the costume, have your child wear it for short periods of time and try to increase the intervals as time goes on. The practice of wearing the costume will prepare your child for what they will experience the day of Halloween, however keep in mind that if your child does not want to wear the costume, then don’t make them. Smith suggests to instead, “Talk about the situation…and try to uncover the reason why they don’t like it.” If you talk it out, then chances are they may get used to the idea of wearing one.

Tip #3 Talk about (and practice) the upcoming events

Talking about what you have planned for the day will better prepare your child for what they might experience. Smith suggests it may help to go even further, “Create a visual story of what Halloween may be like for your child, with some pictures or drawings.” If you have some friendly neighbors, try scheduling some time to practice ringing, or knocking on their doorbell to receive some candy.

Tip #4 Stick to the familiar

Since Halloween is about the bizarre and spooky, it may be best not to overwhelm your child with too many unfamiliar things. Try taking your child to a neighborhood party, community event, or school festival where your child may know many people in attendance. If that’s not an option, then try sticking close to family or friends for the day’s events.

Tip #5 Try not to go to the outer limits

Your child may be uncomfortable with the prospect of knocking on new doors and meeting new people, so only do what he, or she can take. Smith suggests baby steps, “…You can start by going to three houses. Asses how your child is doing and build up to more houses the following year.” If this is stretching your child’s limits, try staying home this year and giving your child the option to pass out candy. It’ll make him or her more familiar with the idea of Halloween for the following year.

Tip #6 Overall – Don’t overwhelm

The darkness, bright lights and spooky sounds may be enough to send your child into overload. The goal should always be to make new things as comfortable as possible for your child. If the stimuli is too much, then try planning activities that can be done in the day, like drawing on pumpkins, coloring, or watching spooky cartoons and nix the Halloween trick-or-treating events.