How to make Halloween accessible for kids of all ages and abilities in Peterborough and the Kawarthas
There’s no question that Halloween is one of the most popular days of the year for children, but more than 400,000 children in Canada have one or more disabilities that may prevent them from enjoying trick-or-treating with their siblings and other children.
That’s why the Five Counties Children’s Center – which provides therapy services for children with special needs in Peterborough, Haliburton and Northumberland counties and the town of Kawartha Lakes – is sharing its top tips for making trick-or-treating more accessible and inclusive for all children in this year.
The tips reflect the message from Treat Accessible, a grassroots movement founded in 2017 that aims to make Halloween the world’s first accessible holiday tradition. According to Treat Accessably, 100,000 Canadian households participated in accessible trick-or-treating this past Halloween.
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“We encourage people to think of children of all ages and abilities this Halloween,” said Scott Pepin, CEO of the Five Counties Children’s Center, in a press release. “A few simple changes to your Halloween plans can literally open doors to more trick-or-treating.”
“In our daily work at Five Counties, we support children and young people with physical, developmental and communication needs with the goal of enriching their independence and quality of life every day,” adds Pepin.
“Halloween is one of those days or celebrations that kids of all abilities should experience and enjoy. We call on our communities to help make this happen.”
Here are some barrier breaking suggestions for all kids this Halloween.
Set up a trick-or-treating station that is accessible and barrier-free for every child
For homes with stairs, consider setting up an accessible treat station on the front lawn, in the driveway, or in the garage.
When all else fails, get creative and use your vehicle’s trunk to distribute candy.
Clear the way for trick or treating
Eliminate potential obstacles and ensure the path to your treat station is wide open and well lit, especially for trick-or-treating with limited mobility.
Consider parking on the street or in the garage for even more space.
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Decorate with care for Halloween
While spooky and spooky decorations are appealing, they can be scary for some trick-or-treating.
Bright flashing lights and loud or frightening noises can cause problems in children with sensory processing problems, autism, or epilepsy.
Be thoughtful and tactful in decorating to allow more children to participate in the trick-or-treating.
communication counts
Some children may say “trick or treat” differently. Some may use sign language, assistive technology, speak slowly, or be nonverbal.
Be respectful no matter the circumstances. A smile and a wave can say so much.
Seeing blue is fine
Blue gourds have been adopted informally by some families to indicate that children have unique behavior and communication styles.
If you see a trick-or-treater wearing a blue pumpkin, be understanding and adjust your interactions as needed.
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Use some show and tell to hand out treats
If you encounter children with vision or hearing problems, describe or hold up the treat before putting it in the bag so they know what they are getting.
Make a statement about the times
If you want to make an even stronger statement, put up a sign indicating you’re an accessible trick-or-treating stop. Free accessible trick-or-treating signs for your home are available from participating local RE/MAX offices or representatives, or you can print your own by visiting the Treat Accessible website.
If you have a sign, Treat Accessably suggests putting it up at least a week before Halloween to give families and carers plenty of time to plan their trick-or-treating itinerary.
For more suggestions on how to make Halloween more accessible and inclusive for every child, visit the Treat Accessibly website at Treataccessibly.com.