Tips and tricks for trick or treating

Every year, most children and adults joyfully anticipate Halloween and trick-or-treating. Choosing a costume, getting dressed up, and showing off your sense of humor and creativity is fun no matter how old you are. This annual event, however, can be nerve-racking for some. Parents may be stressed about whether their child will be able to say, “trick or treat,” and “thank you.” Wearing a costume can also be stressful due to sensory challenges. Additionally, parents may worry about meltdowns during festivities. And for some, worry that others will judge them and their child for being different or unique.

Here are some tricks and tips to help you relax and enjoy your trick-or-treating experience

1. Teach your child the words "trick or treat" and "thank you."

It’s okay if your child is unable to produce the entire phrase. You can simplify the phrase so your child can say it. You can also discuss this with your speech therapist, who can work on these phrases during therapy sessions.

2. Teach and model for them expected behaviors.

It’s fine if your child can’t or won’t say “trick or treat” or “thank you.” Simply articulate it for them so they can hear and see how it’s done. Children learn best when they see models and examples.

3. Practice trick-or-treating in costume

Costumes can be itchy, big, bulky, and irritating, especially for small children. Allow your child to dress up in their costume prior to Halloween day. Wear the costume to the store, the park, and around the house. Let’s get them comfortable with the feeling of wearing their costume before the big day.

4. Choose a costume that appeals to your child's senses.

You can make your child’s costume with them to engage them in the planning process. Take off any uncomfortable components or accessories. Consider using only face painting or simple accessories such as hats and gloves, or a cool treat bag container, for their costumes. It’s also perfectly acceptable to forego the costume entirely.

5. Discuss and read about Halloween

Read age-appropriate Halloween-themed books to your child ahead of Halloween. Reading and storytelling is an excellent way to familiarize your child with the holiday events and traditions.

6. You are not required to visit every house in the neighborhood

You may only go trick-or-treating on your street, two streets, or even just a few familiar houses. Avoid a meltdown by taking a leisurely stroll rather than a marathon.

7. Bring along a stroller

Having your child push a stroller is a great way for them to incorporate heavy work. Heavy work gives the body proprioceptive information, which helps the muscles relax and the body calm down. When the body is on edge, heavy work signals the brain to relax.

8. Your child can carry their candy bag

Carrying a heavy candy bag can act like heavy work too.

9. Bring sunglasses

If your child is sensitive to bright light, bring sunglasses or tinted glasses for them to wear.

10. Be encouraging

Remember that not everyone has the same abilities; trick-or-treating may be enjoyable for adults and older children with disabilities. Let us be kind, patient, judgment-free, and encouraging.

11. Finally, remember to enjoy the festivities and have a Happy Halloween!

If trick-or-treating isn’t for you or your child, maybe candy and a Halloween movie is.

Tips and Tricks for Trick-or-Treating