Halloween can be a fun night of make believe and candy, but for some kids, it can all be too much.
Brantford - Susan Battin, Autism Services manager and clinical supervisor for Lansdowne Children’s Centre, noted that most of the time, children are told not to take candy from strangers, and then, “One night a year, all the rules are off the table.”
On top of that, between wearing a costume, seeing other people in costumes, hearing strange and scary sounds, and seeing spooky decorations and lighting, “there’s going to be lots of things that don’t make sense” to some kids.
While Lansdowne serves children and youths who have physical or developmental challenges, Battin noted,
“Halloween is hard for many kids,” because it can just be overstimulating in general.
Battin offered some tips to help make sure your home and/or event is welcoming to all the little heroes, mystical creatures or other things that go bump in the night, on October 31.
“Always interact as much as you as the host are willing and comfortable, but realize that that might not be reciprocated,” Battin said. Some children may not be able to verbally say things like ‘Trick or Treat’ or ‘please’ and ‘thank you’; they might need to use an alternative form of communication, like sign language or pictures.
If you have stairs to get to your door, go out to give treats to children who have assistive devices like wheelchairs, so they are included in the night’s fun.
Make sure your walkways are clear of obstacles and are well lit.
“If any teenagers come up to you, be nice to them. … developmentally, that could be somebody that looks older than they are cognitively, so be cognizant of that,” Battin said.
If you’re driving, be sure to go very slowly, and watch for kids unexpectedly running out into the street.
If possible, try to keep the volume on music and soundtracks lowered, so as to not be overwhelming.
Ultimately, remember that “Halloween is largely about kids being kids,” Battin said, and most importantly, “Inclusion isn’t scary.”
Lansdowne is a SmartStart Hub, meaning that it’s a one-stop point of entry to connect children and youth (up to the age of 18) who need help with their communication, developmental and/or physical development needs with local child development services, supports and resources. Lansdowne operates sites in Brantford, Caledonia, Dunnville and Simcoe, serving the region of Grand Erie.
There is no cost, and no diagnosis or doctor’s referral is required, to contact a SmartStart Hub. For more information, visit lansdownecentre.ca.
Comments