Halloween Fun
Not all of our FAQautism.com listeners live in countries that celebrate this seasonal holiday, Halloween. But, those that do are probably aware of the challenges that Halloween can present to individuals with autism. Costumes and masks paired with unusual and unfamiliar sounds can be confusing and frightening. Halloween is a tradition that can be great fun for youngsters with autism, or it can be a disaster waiting to happen.
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Costumes. Some people with autism prefer reality, and simply do not like masks or costumes on themselves or on other people. We need to respect their feelings, and avoid forcing them into uncomfortable situations. Other individuals with autism are intrigued with masks, hats, and costumes. If your friend with autism enjoys costumes, gather some together and sit them down in front of a full length mirror so they can see their transformation from a kid to a cat or a clown or a pirate.
Jack o’ Lantern. Many youngsters with autism are intrigued with candle light, so you might want to introduce the tradition of a jack o’ lantern. Let your child pick out a pumpkin at the store or pick one from a pumpkin patch. Carve the pumpkin at home, letting the youngster help as much possible. After sunset, gather the family around the carved pumpkin. You can place it in the middle of the kitchen table, in the middle of a table on your porch, or on the picnic table outside. Light a votive candle or two inside the pumpkin, then turn out the light and watch the candle light dance inside the jack o’ lantern.
Trick or Treat. Rather than gathering a huge bag of candy by going door to door, plan a family Halloween party. Play bingo with fun prizes and treats. Serve popcorn and apple cider. Play Pin-the-Grin-on-the Pumpkin. Hang marshmallows from the ceiling with string and try to catch them with your mouth with both hands behind your back. Give everyone a bag and let them search for candies or little treats you hid around the house earlier in the day.
Tip for the Day: The key to success is to enjoy some family time together without forcing a youngster to participate in uncomfortable or overwhelming activities. And the key to success for FAQautism is to have you loyal listeners and readers spread the word about this resource to your family, friends, and colleagues. Tell someone today!
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me an email with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. Send email to talk@FAQautism.com And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
TIP FOR THE DAY:
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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