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Halloween is so much fun for kids because it involves getting dressed up and eating lots of candy. However, there’s more to Halloween than trick-or-treating, and it can be overwhelming for kids who are on the autism spectrum. Carving pumpkins, picking out a costume, scary decorations and bundles of candy can be a lot to process for a child who has sensory sensitivity. Our therapists at Mobile Therapy Centers have a few tips to share to make the experience a pleasant one.
Create Social Stories: A social story helps to prepare your child for what to expect the night of trick or treating and can include information about decorations, costumes, trick or treating, candy and noises.
Watch Videos: Videos can provide an accurate picture of what an event will look like. Show your child videos of decorated houses, children walking around in costumes and masks and going house to house trick or treating.
Role-Play: Have your child practice trick or treating with members of your family. Have one family member walk up to your front door with the child and have the child knock or ring the doorbell. Then have one family member inside to answer the door. Have your child practice saying, “Trick or Treat!” and taking only one piece of candy. Then prompt your child to say “Thank you!”
Try on Costumes: Have your child try on their costume ahead of time so that you can ensure it is a costume they are comfortable wearing.
Prepare PECS or AAC: If your child uses PECS or AAC, create a picture or button that says “Trick or Treat!”
We hope that these tips are helpful in preparing your child for the holiday season. If you have any questions, please email us at asktheteam@mtcus.com.
Mobile Therapy Centers hopes everyone has a safe and Happy Halloween!
Mobile Therapy Centers services include ABA Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Behavioral Therapy and Counseling. We see children at our clinic, at your home or at your child’s school/daycare making it convenient for you and your family. Contact us for a free consultation at 847-816-7200 or at https://mtcus.com/services/counseling/.
Elaina is a part of our MTC Occupational Therapy Department and received an education from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, McHenry County College, and Husson University. She has a strong passion for working with both animals and children. Elaina has always wanted to incorporate both of these passions into her career and is incredibly excited to bring Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) to Mobile Therapy Centers!
Rocky is an Australian Mountain Doodle who loves to learn, play, and meet new people. Rocky joined our MTC team when he was just 8 weeks old and has been training to support the clients of MTC from day one. His kind and loving nature makes him the perfect match for Animal-Assisted Therapy, and Rocky can not wait to meet all his new friends through the MTC AAT program!