For many families, Halloween is a highlight of the fall season—costumes, candy, decorations, and excitement fill the air. But for children with sensory sensitivities, all that noise, texture, and unpredictability can quickly become overwhelming.
At Alora Behavioral Health, we believe every child deserves to enjoy holidays in a way that works for them. If you’re planning a celebration this year, here are some sensory-friendly Halloween tips to help make the day feel fun—not scary.
🎭 Rethink the Costume
Costumes are a big part of Halloween fun, but they can also be a sensory nightmare. Tags, itchy fabrics, masks, and unfamiliar textures can cause major discomfort.
Tips:
- Choose soft, breathable fabrics your child already enjoys wearing.
- Let your child try on the costume in advance, gradually increasing the time they wear it.
- Consider themed pajamas or a decorated hoodie as an alternative to traditional costumes.
- Keep the costume simple—sometimes a small accessory like a hat or cape is enough.
🏠 Create a Safe Space at Home
If you’re hosting or attending a Halloween event, prepare a quiet retreat space your child can go to if things feel too intense.
Ideas:
- A dimly lit room with noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or a favorite book.
- Have a “break” card your child can use to signal they need time away.
- Use a visual schedule to help them understand what’s happening and when.
🍬 Candy Considerations
Trick-or-treating can be overwhelming: strangers, crowds, and unknown candy all at once.
Options to consider:
- Do a “practice run” in your home or neighborhood to get your child comfortable with the process.
- Skip the door-to-door and opt for a “candy scavenger hunt” indoors or in the backyard.
- Let your child pick their own candy from a safe, pre-selected bowl to avoid texture or allergy issues.
🧠 Set Expectations Ahead of Time
Unexpected surprises can cause anxiety. Prepare your child by walking through what Halloween might look like this year.
Use:
- Social stories explaining what Halloween is and what they might see or hear.
- Countdown calendars to build anticipation without increasing stress.
- Roleplay to rehearse saying “trick or treat” or responding to compliments on their costume.
🧡 Honor Their Pace
Some kids may love handing out candy, but not trick-or-treating. Others might enjoy the decorations but prefer to skip the noise. That’s okay!
You can:
- Celebrate Halloween all week by doing small, themed activities at home like crafts, pumpkin decorating, or watching a favorite movie.
- Go out earlier in the evening when it’s less busy or stick to houses of people you know.
- Choose not to participate this year and replace it with something else your child loves.
🕯️ Keep Safety and Comfort First
It’s tempting to want your child to join in on every tradition, but the best memories come from feeling seen, supported, and safe.
Reminders:
- Bring sensory tools or comfort items with you (earmuffs, chewy necklaces, favorite toy).
- Dress for the weather—even if it doesn’t match the costume perfectly.
- Trust your instincts—and your child’s. If something feels like too much, it probably is.
Final Thoughts
Halloween doesn’t have to be loud, itchy, or overwhelming. With just a few thoughtful adjustments, you can create a celebration that brings joy instead of stress.
At Alora Behavioral Health, we’re here to support families with tools that work in real life. If you’re looking for more strategies tailored to your child’s needs, don’t hesitate to reach out.