DON'T MAKE HALLOWEEN A TRICKY TIME FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Continued
If you meet a trick-or-treater with special needs: You may not even realize that the child at your door has special needs. You may automatically think that the child has poor manners or is being rude. However, a lot of times, children with special needs are not purposefully acting that way, or they are acting that way for a reason beyond their control. 1. These kids might have difficulties with social skills While it is polite to say please and thank you, mannersmay not be the focus for the child. He may be practicing walking with other children or ringing the doorbell. Manners may be a later goal, so try to be understanding. 2. Some special needs kids struggle with self-regulation If a child runs into your home the minute you open the door, she may see something interesting or fun she cannot resist exploring. While we want children tomanage their impulsivity, this is easier for some than others. Take cues from her parent and patiently guide the child to the treats — and praise her for following any directions or guidance. Her parent will thank you for it. 3. Be sensitive to speech difficulties Not every child’s language skills are as fully developed as you may expect. If a child does not say the requisite “trick-or-treat,” there is a strong chance that it’s due to lack of ability rather than defiance or non-compliance. 4. Be aware of sensory sensitivities If you really get into the Halloween spirit and decorate your doorway with spooky or loud objects, this may be scary or particularly difficult for children who struggle with a variety of sensory inputs. While you should still be festive in your own way, this is something to consider as you prepare for the holiday. 5. Pay attention to food allergies As we become more aware of a variety of food allergies, it is always a good idea to have a non-food treat in your Halloween basket so all children can enjoy the holiday. Whether it’s stickers, cute Halloween erasers or something similar, there are often inexpensive options to consider that optimize inclusion on such an exciting day. A special note about school festivities during Halloween. Some schools put different grade levels together in a large area and have a Halloween celebration of games andmusic. This very loud, lively party intensifies the misery for your sensitive child. If, with all the preparation, your child still doesn’t want to take part in the frolic, plan something else with the teacher. Your childmight
go in another class where they are doing Halloween crafts or listening to stories being read. If your child is old enough he could be a helper in this class to boost his ego. If eating different foods is a problem. Arrange with the teacher beforehand and send a personal party snack for your child to school. With all the allergies some kids have this is often done and there is no stigma attached to this. If your child cannot tolerate being near others who are eating, another activity in a different classroom during this time could be arranged. If the students are encouraged to change into a costume for the “Halloween school party” have a costume that can be pulled on without removing the comfortable clothes he came to school with. Make sure your child has practiced putting it on, removing it, and wearing it around the house before that day.
Written by: Lorna dEntremont
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