These Tips Will Help Parents Navigate the Holiday Without Major Scares

Halloween should not be scary, at least not in the literal sense of the word. But for parents of children with autism, this holiday can entail some extra worries.

Spooky noises, crowds in the streets, and loads of sugar are integral to the holiday's traditions. So take a breath, and fret not: there is a lot you can do to improve the odds of enjoying the fun. Remember that neurotypical children are also prone to unpredictable reactions when overexcited. As much as we prepare, the unexpected is there for everyone. The following tips should help.

Before Halloween

• Rehearse. There are several ways of setting up expectations. Use the one that best suits your child's personality: role-playing, reading a story, or providing a detailed explanation of how the day's activities will unfold.
• Respect Their Boundaries. Remember, it's not mandatory to dress up or trick-or-treat. If your child seems opposed or uninterested, you may find another role for them. For example, some children are more comfortable giving away candies, or at a small backyard gathering with people, they know well.
• Re-think Costumes. The best outfit is the one your child feels comfortable wearing. Halloween-themed PJs often look like costumes and are far comfier. Have your child try it on beforehand to rule out issues such as itchy labels and scratchy fabric. Soothing items like headphones or a favorite toy can be part of the custom. Use your creativity!

The Night of Halloween

• Monitor. If trick or treating, give an adult the role of monitoring the child at all times
• Avoid Sensory Overload. Pull out all the stops: headphones, fidget spinners, anything that helps keep anxiety at bay. Steer clear of houses that emit loud noises or prank kids (you can usually spot them by the reactions of other people who pass them by.)
• Curb Sugar Intake. The child should know well ahead that they are not to ingest the entirety of the "bounty" on Halloween. Make a plan on how the treats will be rationed to last many, many weeks.

Spooky or not, Halloween will come and go. So, remember the most important thing: keep your children safe and try to enjoy!

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