Halloween night is coming!! Preparing your child for the big night

Which child doesn't want free candy? While parents of typically developing children can deem themselves prepared as soon as they buy the fairy, unicorn or super hero costumes for their little ones in time for the big fun day, for parents with children on autism spectrum, going trick-or-treating on Halloween evening is anything but just worry about costumes. In fact, their child might not even like wearing costumes because they are itchy, bulky or just because. This is a happy occasion that could easily turn to be a nightmare for both children with autism and their parents. Some of the potentially unhappy situation could be vastly improved by some preparation and practice ahead of time. Personally, I think social stories would greatly serve the purpose. But the following list could help too.
1. A schedule for the Halloween night if going out for trick or treating is essential. Note in it where you will go with the child, how many houses and the time you will come back to the house.
2. If possible, talk to the neighbours ahead of time that you will be bringing your child over that night for trick or treating. This will alleviate any surprise or fear when neighbours are confronted by an unexpected behaviour from the child.
3. Your child might need an occasional break. The key is to warn him/her ahead of time. For example, say you will take a break after two houses.
4. Take along some comfort items likely to calm the child. A headphone might be ideal to reduce sudden noise.
5. Practice social script of the actual activity such as when he or she goes to a neighbour's door he/ she has to first, ring the bell only once, next when they open the door, say trick or treat and hold up the bag he/she's carrying, next let the homeowner put candy or chip bag inside her bag, last, say thank you, wish Happy Halloween.
6. Practice safety rules of holding hands with a parent or a friend and looking both ways before crossing the road, not to run in his/her costume, wear reflective label and finally, not to eat candy before mommy or daddy says yes.
Having said that, the only thing left to say is to go out and have fun with your child. Wonders never cease when you look at stuff through their eyes. You might even have fun yourself.