October is full of excitement—cooler weather, falling leaves, pumpkins on every doorstep, and of course, Halloween. For many kids, Halloween is all about costumes, parties, and trick-or-treating. But for children with sensory processing challenges, this holiday can feel overwhelming instead of fun.
Children with sensory processing challenges often react more strongly than their peers to everyday experiences. Some examples include:
- Discomfort with clothing tags, seams, or certain fabrics
- Covering ears in noisy places or becoming upset by loud sounds
- Strong negative reactions to bright lights and crowds
- Difficulty transitioning between activities or environments
From itchy costumes to crowded school parades to spooky decorations and nighttime outings, Halloween can bring a flood of new sensations that push kids past their limits. The good news is—with some planning, flexibility, and creativity—your child can still enjoy the holiday in ways that feel safe and manageable.
Here are some strategies to make Halloween a more positive experience for kids with sensory sensitivities:
1. Choose costumes wisely
Halloween stores are bursting with bright lights, music, and endless costume choices, which can feel overwhelming. Try looking at costume ideas online together ahead of time so your child has a chance to choose calmly.
If scratchy fabrics or stiff outfits are an issue, start with clothing your child already feels comfortable in and add a simple accessory, like a cape, hat, or themed T-shirt. Some kids might prefer decorating their own hoodie or pajamas.
Practice wearing the costume at home before Halloween to see how your child tolerates it. If it feels too uncomfortable, it’s okay to skip it altogether—your child can carry a themed candy bag or glow stick and still be part of the fun.
2. Prepare for trick-or-treating
Walking around in the dark, seeing unexpected decorations, and hearing loud noises can all be stressful. Talk your child through what to expect, and even do a “practice run” one evening before Halloween.
You can also set limits that help your child feel in control—like visiting just a few familiar neighbors, or going out early before the crowds build. Some families find it helps to create a visual schedule (“first we’ll go to Grandma’s house, then two neighbors, then home for hot chocolate”).
3. Make pumpkin carving sensory-friendly
Scooping out pumpkin guts can be a wonderful sensory activity… or a total meltdown moment, depending on the child. Offer different levels of participation:
- Watching and commenting while others carve
- Drawing a face on the pumpkin with markers instead of cutting
- Using safe tools to scoop or decorate with stickers
There’s no “right way” to enjoy this tradition—it’s about making it fit your child’s comfort zone.
4. Create your own traditions
If the typical Halloween activities feel overwhelming, give yourself permission to make new family traditions. Maybe your child enjoys handing out candy instead of going door to door, hosting a quiet pumpkin-painting night with a few friends, or watching a favorite (not-too-scary) Halloween movie together. What matters is finding joy in ways that work for your family.
How We Can Help
At the Center for Children and Youth, our occupational therapists specialize in supporting kids with sensory processing challenges. We work with families to build strategies that make holidays—and everyday life—less stressful and more enjoyable.
If your child struggles with sensory sensitivities, our OT team can help you create personalized approaches so they feel more confident, flexible, and calm during experiences like Halloween.
Learn more about our OT services and how we can support your family
