The Savants’ Guide to Halloween for Autism Families – Punk-Lite Edition
It’s Not About You (But It Kinda Is):
We get it—those Halloween photos feel important. You want the memories and the Insta shots, but remember, the night is about them. Their magic doesn’t have to look like your childhood memories. When things don’t go as planned, it’s still their adventure, and that’s what makes it special.
He chose and loved his costume, took weeks to adapt to the hat. The speakers, cranked up for the school celebration, rained on his parade.
Skip the Noise:
Opt for sensory-friendly costumes—think soft fabrics, no masks (ok, take a quick pic in front of your house), or even superhero PJs. Comfort over anything else.
Forget Shoe Fantasies:
That dream of the perfect costume shoes? Forget it. Go with what’s already comfortable or even go barefoot if they prefer. Line costumes with the coziest PJs underneath, or add fleece from old baby blankets for warmth. If you’re short on time, scissors and double-sided tape are a lifesaver! And if there’s time, a $10 quick stitch from the dry cleaner can keep everything together.
Costume Trial Runs (There’s Still Time!):
Got a few days? Perfect. Use the time left to do mini-dress rehearsals. Let your kid try on the costume at home for a few minutes each day, mixing and matching if needed. Swap in familiar clothes or favorite PJs underneath for comfort. Even quick tries can help make Halloween feel less like a surprise and more like their scene.
The Pre-Game Hustle:
Practice a couple of doors ahead of time with neighbors or friends. Think of it as a Halloween “scrimmage.” Low-pressure practice helps them (and you) get comfortable. And hey, you’re collecting photos for memories along the way.
Mid-October weekend wear per request of the superheroes.
Backup Costumes & Options:
Flexibility is your friend. Costumes can change in an instant, so pack an extra outfit or two. A pirate at 5 PM might be a dinosaur by 7 PM, and that’s all good.
Buffer the Door Shock:
Plan for the unknown. Some houses go all out with spooky sounds, and for your little one, that can be a lot. Start with familiar homes first, and have an exit plan for the rest.
Cool Trick-or-Treat Phrase:
No need for your kid to feel any pressure to speak, yell, or communicate, “Trick or Treat!” when the door opens. Instead, you could preempt the exchange as a parent with a smooth line like, “Silent spook—happy Halloween!” It’s cool, unforced, and lets everyone enjoy the moment without apologies or explanations.
End-of-Night Cool-Down:
Wind down on your terms—sort candy, trade it for stickers, or just cozy up for a Halloween movie. We usually have the van parked at the end of the last house for an easy and quiet transition home. The night’s not about the perfect plan but about finding the fun in your own way.
Remember: There’s no “perfect” Halloween—just your own version. Whatever way it plays out, you’re nailing it. 🎃
Yes, I was told I would be Peach from Mario Bros. And so I was!