Autism-Friendly Halloween Activities

Halloween is a fun and exciting holiday for many children, but for children with autism, it can also feel overwhelming. Loud noises, flashing lights, and large crowds may lead to sensory overload, making it hard for them to fully enjoy the celebration.

The good news is that Halloween can be adapted to meet your child’s needs. With a little planning, families can enjoy safe, fun, and sensory-friendly activities. Below are several great alternatives to traditional Halloween celebrations.

Trunk-or-Treat

If your child is easily overwhelmed, trunk-or-treat events are a great alternative to traditional trick-or-treating. These community-hosted gatherings usually take place in parking lots, offering a structured and predictable environment that’s easier for children on the spectrum to navigate.

If there isn’t a trunk-or-treat in your area, check your local mall. Many shopping centers host trick-or-treating events indoors, providing the same sense of structure and a calmer, controlled setting.

Sensory-Friendly Halloween Parties

Check your community for sensory-friendly Halloween parties! Some companies, schools, and neighborhoods offer autism-friendly alternatives to traditional Halloween celebrations.

For example, many ABA therapy centers host Halloween gatherings, crafts, and trick-or-treating events in controlled environments. Contact your local provider to check, and potentially encourage them to plan one!

Make Slime Monsters

Arts and crafts are a simple way to bring Halloween fun into your home, and slime is an especially great activity for children with autism because of its sensory-friendly texture. Try making “Slime Monsters” together—here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 5 oz clear glue

• 1 Tbsp baking soda

• Green glitter paint

• 3 Tbsp contact lens solution

• 1 small pack of googly eyes

Instructions:

1. Pour glue into a bowl and mix in the baking soda.

2. Add glitter paint a little at a time until you reach the shade you want.

3. Stir well, then add the contact lens solution.

4. Knead the slime in your hands until it no longer sticks (this may take up to 5 minutes).

5. Add googly eyes and enjoy your spooky new slime monsters!

Boo at the Zoo

If your child enjoys animals more than candy, consider visiting a local zoo for Halloween. Many zoos host sensory-friendly “Boo at the Zoo” events with festive activities in a calmer, more controlled environment.

For example, the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance offers a program that includes complimentary trick-or-treat bags, candy stations, photo opportunities, animal encounters, and seasonal snacks. Check with your local zoo to see if they host something similar.

Additional Resources

These are just a few examples - your community may offer additional sensory-friendly options. Check local parent groups, social media, or therapy centers to discover more events near you.

By making small adjustments to traditional celebrations, families can create Halloween memories that are safe, fun, and stress-free. Always keep your child’s unique needs in mind, and choose activities that make them feel comfortable and included. With a little creativity and preparation, Halloween can be an enjoyable holiday for the whole family.

👉 Visit our parent resource page for a full list of Halloween tips and activities!