10/27/2025
Halloween Tips for Families of Kids with Autism👻
Halloween can be fun and overwhelming — flashing lights, costumes, surprises, and sugar everywhere! Here are a few ideas to hopefully make the night more enjoyable for your child (and for you):
🕯️ 1. Try a “dress rehearsal” walk — not just for costumes.
A few nights before, do a short “Halloween walk” at dusk. Carry a flashlight, practice knocking on one door (even your own), and let your child get used to the sounds and smells of the evening.
👗 2. Label textures and smells ahead of time.
Before the big night, make a little “sensory preview” basket — a piece of costume fabric, a wrapped candy, maybe a glow stick. Let your child explore these one at a time so they can match words (scratchy, soft, sticky, minty, loud) to the experiences before they’re surrounded by them.
🏠 3. Create a “comfort station” by the front door.
If your child prefers to hand out candy instead of trick-or-treating, set up a calm, themed space near the door — a small stool, a fidget basket, headphones, maybe a themed book. They still get to participate, but on their terms.
🧺 4. Have a “yes” basket and a “later” basket.
When your child gets candy, sort it together: one basket for things they can enjoy right away and one for things that can wait (either due to allergies, texture, or excitement level). It builds regulation and teaches decision-making without pressure.
📸 5. Capture moments, not just smiles.
If your child loves the flashlight more than the costume, or wants to walk up and down the same driveway for 20 minutes — that’s their version of the magic. Snap a few photos of what matters to them.
🎃 6. Practice the language of Halloween in your own way.
If “Trick or Treat” feels too much, make a visual card your child can hold up, or practice a wave or sign. It still helps them engage, builds confidence, and teaches others about communication diversity.
💫 7. Keep the next morning easy and relaxed.
Plan for quiet pajamas, a favorite show, or sensory play the next morning to reset routines.
Halloween doesn’t have to look the same for every family — it’s about creating safe, joyful moments your way. 🧡
