Halloween is almost here! Costumes are ready, candy is bought, and excitement is in the air! But for some families, this night can be full of surprises, sensory overload, and unexpected stress.

Don’t worry! With a few last-minute strategies, you can make Halloween enjoyable for your child, less stressful for yourself, and most importantly, fun!

1. Review Your Visual Schedule

Take a few minutes to review your child’s Halloween visual schedule:

• Getting dressed in costume

• Walking to the first house

• Trick-or-treating steps (knock, say “Trick or Treat,” receive candy, say thank you)

• Returning home and enjoying candy

Why It Helps: Reviewing the steps helps reduce anxiety and increases confidence.

2. Practice Key Social Skills

Even a short refresher can make a big difference:

• “Trick or Treat” Communication: Remind your child of the method they’ll use: verbal, visual card, or speech device.

• Saying Thank You: Practice using words, gestures, or a visual card after receiving candy.

• Turn-Taking and Waiting: A quick line-up game at home helps them handle crowds and small delays.

ABA Tip: Praise every successful attempt to reinforce positive social behavior.

3. Prepare Your Sensory Supports

Halloween is full of lights, loud noises, and costumes that might feel itchy:

• Consider a soft costume or wearing it in layers.

• Bring sunglasses or a hat if your child is sensitive to bright lights.

• Use noise reducing headphones for noisy areas.

• Pack a small fidget toy or comfort item for breaks.

Why It Matters: Managing sensory input prevents overwhelm and keeps your child engaged and happy.

4. Walk Part of Your Route

Even a short walk around the block or neighborhood familiarizes your child with the route and what to expect. Point out familiar houses or decorations to help them feel comfortable.

Skill Building: Exposure and practice increase independence and reduce anxiety.

5. Use Safety Supports

Safety is always the priority:

• Glow sticks, flashlights, or reflective tape

• Hold hands when walking on streets or crossing intersections

• Review visual safety rules one last time

Tip: Make safety fun! Your child can “light up” their own path while staying close to you.

6. Keep the Night Short and Sweet

• Start early if your child gets tired quickly.

• Focus on a few favorite houses or a short route.

• Watch for signs of sensory overload and take breaks when needed.

Goal: Positive experiences build confidence. Even a short night can feel like a big success!

Halloween is about fun, family, and celebration. A few minutes of preparation, review, and small adjustments can make the night enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

Remember, every successful trick-or-treat interaction is a win, and these small wins add up to confidence, independence, and happy memories.

Bonus Support

Need more guidance? Join our Parenting Community! It’s free for life! You’ll get:

• Last-minute strategies and tips for Halloween and other daily routines

• Support from BCBAs and other parents who understand the journey

• Step-by-step guidance to make holidays and routines successful

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Or, if your child could benefit from personalized coaching, our Parent Coaching Program can help you create an individualized plan for fun, confidence, and success. Not just for Halloween, but year-round.