- Visibility: Make sure that you child can be seen. Many costumes are dark colors so adding some visible tape can help, or make sure they carry glow sticks and/or a flashlight.
- Trip hazard: Some costumes can be very hard to walk in especially if they are over-sized. Have your child practice walking in their costume.
- Buddy System: Partner your child with a "buddy" that can help your special needs child during the time they are trick or treating.
- Can they see? Some costumes have very poor visibility. Check to see their visibility and modify if necessary.
- Walk with them: Do not let your child go by themselves.
- Check the Candy: Do not let you child eat the candy they have gathered until you have double checked it. Discard any unwrapped candies. Sometimes it is good to carry your own candy to give to your children as you walk around.
- Sensory Issues: Some costumes are not made of the best materials for children, particularly a child with special needs. The material can be itchy or scratchy. Have you child wear the costume beforehand it avoid and disasters on Halloween night.
- Know your child: If you know that it will be just too much to go from door to door with your child, stay home - involve your child by handing out candy at your home. Play games such as guessing the next costume. Keep it fun!
- Crafts at Home: Instead of heading out, invite friends to your home and create a fun evening by making simple Halloween crafts and treats.
- Beware of Allergies: In recent years there has been a push for all to be more aware of children with allergies. Be on the lookout for the "Teal colored Pumpkin Buckets". This would indicate that a child has food allergies. Children who have a peanut allergy are often not able to eat 50% of the candy handed to them. Click here to find out more about the Teal Pumpkin Project.
We hope that these tips for Halloween Safety for Children with Special Needs help your family to have a Safe and Spooky Halloween.
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