Halloween should be a fun time for children and their families, however, for people with autism this can be a particularly distressing time.
In an attempt to boost awareness and acceptance around autism, North East Autism Society has shared its top tips on how to have a happy Halloween .
Lindsay Bruce, media and campaigns officer at North East Autism Society said: “We’ve come a long way over the years in terms of how we see and understand each other, and how we accept the differences each of us have.
“We decided to share our Halloween tips, because every single one of us deserves the opportunity to take part in normal society.”
Sensory differences affect many people with autism. While some people may be under-stimulated and crave sensory stimuli, others can be hypersensitive require a softer, more comfortable outfit.
North East Autism Society suggests adapting the outfit to a person’s individual needs.
In its Facebook post the charity explains: “This small tweak could be the difference between happy haunting or a night of upset.”
Uncertainty around Halloween can also be distressing for people with autism, even if they do not leave the house.
It is impossible to tell who will come to the door, the group size and volume of trick or treaters, or how they will greet you if you open the door.
When out trick or treating, it is difficult to determine if someone will answer the door and what they will ask if they do.
To relieve some of the stress around this, North East Autism Society is encouraging people with autism to decide on ways they can make Halloween enjoyable for themselves and “go public with it”.
This could be a sign advising against trick or treater’s in advance of the night, or personalised handouts, explaining personal preferences or challenges an individual may face.
North East Autism Society suggests making the most of Halloween by experimenting with various sensory activities.
Bobbing for apples, face painting and baking creative, colourful food can be fantastic ways to enjoy Halloween.
However, if that does not suit an individual, a cosy night with a book can also be just as fun.
Through publishing their ‘top tips’, Lindsay adds: “We hope others will lean in and think, ‘how can I understand this more so I can play my part in making life that little bit sweeter for someone else?’”
A full list of their top tips can be found on their Facebook page, North East Autism Society .
