For most families, Halloween is a fun and exciting experience. However, for children on the spectrum, the excitement, sensory stimulation, and “scary” atmosphere can feel overwhelming. We’re here to tell you that anyone can enjoy the festivities--as long as proper preparation is taken into consideration.

Follow these tips to make trick or treating a little less spooky:

• While you still have a few days until Halloween, begin talking about all the lights, masks, crowds, and costumes. You want your child to know what to expect, but be careful not to focus on small details they may obsess over.
• Practice trick-or-treating scenarios before the big day arrives. Watch online videos on how trick-or-treating works with your child, and review what to say at the door. Typically, after knocking on a door and getting an answer, the next step is entering the home, so the concept of taking treats and leaving may be confusing. Make sure your child understands Halloween is different.
• Take a walk through the neighborhood to show your child the route in advance. Explain the differences between how the neighborhood currently appears and how crowded it may get on the 30th.
• If your child is hesitant, make a list of things your child was fearful of but ended up really enjoying. Show that although trick-or-treating isn’t part of their usual routine, it can be a positive, fun experience!
• Bring anything else you know can help with your child’s specific sensory needs, such as their favorite toy to fidget with or hold when overstimulated. With some creativity, you may even be able to incorporate this object into their costume!
• If your child is sensitive to loud sounds, consider bringing earplugs to help protect against any loud surprises from trickster homeowners.
• Also keep sensory needs in mind when choosing a costume. Children may struggle more with the stimulation of trick-or-treating if they are wearing fabrics, masks, or face paints that make them uncomfortable.
• Plan to travel with another adult while trick-or-treating to help with unpredictable situations.
• Remember to take a deep breath and enjoy the candy!

With a little preparation, Halloween can be a blast! Don’t forget to share some of your favorite costumes with us on Facebook or Twitter!

Most common childhood respiratory illnesses like the flu, colds, coughs, and sore throats are caused by viruses and do not need antibiotics. Your goal as a parent, caregiver, or teacher is to help prevent the flu from spreading! Here are some important guidelines:

• Immunize children and adults before and during flu season.
• Recognize illness when symptoms such as fevers, runny noses, sore throats, and coughs appear.
• Care for and separate ill children from others when needed.

If your child has the flu, don’t panic! Remember that more than one-third of children younger than 6 years may be infected with an influenza virus each year. If you suspect a child has the flu, have your child do the following things:

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of fluids
• Follow proper hand hygiene
• Stay home until better

With proper precautions in place, we can make it through flu season together!