This blog post is being published in two separate posts. This is Part 1 of 2.
When Halloween time comes around, this may be a scary period for more than just the children in your family. If you’re a parent of a child with autism, Halloween brings a unique set of challenges.
Lurking around every corner are candies, costumes, frightening imagery and unnerving sounds. It may be tempting to take a pass on this holiday but before you completely opt-out, read these five ACES tips for preparing you and your child with autism for Halloween.
- October is all about Halloween stories and sing-a-long fun.We know how effective story books, videos and music can be for a child with autism. Additionally, there are many wonderful children’s books and songs, such as Coast Music Therapy, about Halloween that are particularly useful for special needs children. Take advantage of these fun options to help turn spooky time in to silly time! By reading and singing together not only are you getting ready for Halloween but you are also aiding in your child’s literacy and creative development. What’s not to love about that?
- Take steps to avoid forbidden foods. At School and in the Community: Before the first day of school you alerted relevant staff to any particular food allergies or sensitivities your child with autism may have. Now would be a good time to resend that list with a gentle reminder to keep an eye out for him or her. Offer to provide the teacher with food and drink alternatives for any Halloween parties that may involve the forbidden cupcakes or the dreaded sugary drinks. Community events may be a good social time opportunity but be sure to remain vigilant as to what is offered and consumed by your child. Consider having him wear a sticker or wristband alerting grown-ups to his special dietary needs. Trick-or-Treating: If you and your child are planning to go trick-or-treating on Halloween night, there are a few options you can take to keep your child safe from eating the wrong foods. Of course, discuss all of this with your child ahead of time, repeatedly, so that everyone is on board with the plan. The first option for tackling forbidden foods on Halloween, if you feel comfortable doing so, involves passing out approved items to your neighbors to reserve for your child when he comes knocking. You have probably scoped out where you plan to go anyway and it’s a good chance to raise their awareness. A second option is to discuss with your child ahead of time that all candies collected will be exchanged for a batch of parent-approved Halloween treats. You can do this trade after each house by bringing the treats along, or wait and do it all at once when you get home. Finally, if you wish to completely remove the food option, consider swapping them out for other small gifts or collectible items.
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