Kind & Creative Ways to Celebrate Halloween for Neurodivergent Individuals 🎃

Halloween can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming - especially for autistic people or those with sensory differences, anxiety, or other neurodevelopmental needs.

Loud noises, flashing lights, costumes, and unexpected visitors can all be a lot to manage.

But Halloween doesn’t have to be scary or stressful. It can be joyful, calm and fun - in ways that work for you and your family.

Here are some gentle, inclusive ideas to celebrate Halloween differently:

Home-Based Fun 🏡

• Spooky Movie Night: Choose a cosy film that suits your comfort level. Think pumpkins, popcorn and blankets - not jump scares!

• Decorate Your Space: Use soft lights, paper crafts or window stickers. Avoid flashing lights or loud sound effects.

• Dress-Up Your Way: Costumes can be fun, but they don’t have to be itchy or elaborate. Pyjamas, favourite clothes or themed accessories work just as well.

Creative Activities 🎨

• Pumpkin Painting: A great alternative to carving - less mess and more control.

• Halloween Baking: Make ghost-shaped biscuits or decorate cupcakes with friendly monster faces.

• Craft Time: Try colouring sheets, sensory bottles or DIY decorations using textures that feel good.

Low-Sensory Celebrations 🧘

• Quiet Trick-or-Treating: Visit familiar neighbours during daylight hours or set up a treat trail at home.

• Sensory-Friendly Events: Look out for local inclusive Halloween events with calm spaces and clear expectations.

• Halloween Story Time: Read gentle seasonal books together - no jump scares, just cosy vibes.

Social but Safe 💬

• Virtual Costume Party: Join friends online to show off outfits, play games or share spooky jokes.

• Neighbourhood Window Walk: Decorate your windows and go for a walk to spot others’ displays - no knocking required.

• Create a Halloween Playlist: Dance or chill to tunes that feel fun, not frightening.

Tips for a Positive Experience 💡

• Let them take the lead - it’s okay to skip traditions that don’t feel right.

• Prepare together: talk about what to expect, use visuals or social stories if helpful.

• Build in breaks and quiet time - Halloween doesn’t have to last all day.

• Celebrate strengths: creativity, kindness, humour and imagination are all welcome here.

  
  

Halloween can be whatever you want it to be. Whether you go all out or keep it low-key, the most important thing is that everyone feels safe, included and happy. 🎃