This time of the year gets everyone excited because the arrival of fall also means that Halloween is coming. Each year there are approximately 41.2 million kids who dress up and go trick-or-treating.
While Halloween might be fun for most kids, there will always be a few exceptions. For example, kids with learning and attention difficulties. These kids might be more scared of this holiday than excited due to their oversensitivity.
So, let’s see what you can do to make Halloween fun for them too:
- Costumes: The unusual clothing, the sensation of masks and the makeup can be a huge problem for kids with learning and attention issues. What you can do is have kids wear the costumes before the big day so they can get comfortable with them. If not, there is still time to switch the costume to something more comfortable, simpler.
- Treats! It is an unchangeable tradition to give to trick-or-treaters candies, sweets. With all these temptations, kids are most likely to overdo it. Moreover, for children with learning and attention issues, controlling temptations can be especially difficult because they are overly excited. What you can do is make an arrangement with them before the big day. Let kids choose 3 or 4 candies which they can eat that day, putting aside all the rest. Also, you can trade some candy in return for some toys or non-candy treats ( pizza, pumpkin pie).
- The actual trick-or-treating: running from house to house, creepy street decorations, Jack-o’-lanterns can be also a problem. These kids’ hypersensitivity may make them take the scary scenarios way too seriously.
In this case, consider going to some centers or malls which offer a more controlled trick-or-treating experience. Also, in-house small Halloween parties can be arranged at school. This way, kids will experience the comfort of knowing one another.
If you tick off these few things on your list, it’s more likely that this year’s Halloween to be an unforgettable, exciting day for kids despite their oversensitivity.
Keep it smart, simple and creative!
The Mindomo Team
1 Comment
I’m preparing to become an LD teacher, your advice is much appreciated!