Making Halloween More Accessible

At Bloom, our pediatric community is compiled of children with varied abilities. Often when our therapists ask our patients about typical fall seasonal activities, that may seem like a given for most children, our kiddos respond about how they were not able to participate because they can not physically access a home or farm to do so. 

Making trick-or-treating more accessible for children with disabilities is about creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where all kids can participate safely and comfortably.

First, it’s important to understand different ways kids may participate:

Some kids may:

  • Be nonverbal (they might not say “trick or treat” or “thank you,”) - so greet all kids warmly without expectations before recognizing their ability.

  • Have mobility aids or wheelchairs - and may not be able to climb the steps to a porch to ring the doorbell, so be on the lookout.

  • Wear less traditional or adaptive costumes

  • May have a feeding tube, and are unable to have candy

Here are some practical and thoughtful ways to make Halloween more inclusive for all children:

1. Participate in the "Treat Accessibly" Movement

What to do: Place a "Treat Accessibly" sign outside your home to signal you're inclusive.

Why it matters: It lets families know you're thinking about accessibility and creates a more welcoming environment.

2. Make Your Home Physically Accessible

  • Set up treats at the end of the driveway or sidewalk to avoid steps.

  • Clear pathways of obstacles (hoses, decorations, etc.).

  • Use good lighting for kids with low vision or sensory sensitivities and limit fear of falling.

3. Offer Non-Food Treats

  • Support the Teal Pumpkin Project: place a teal pumpkin outside to show you have non-food options (like stickers, small toys). This helps kids with severe food allergies or feeding tubes to still find a “treat” on Halloween night.

4. Be Sensory-Friendly

  • Post a warning so families have the choice to proceed if loud sounds, strobe lights, or fog machines, that may overwhelm children with sensory sensitivities or autism, are a part of your decor.

  • Offer quiet hours or lower-stimulation setups for a period during the early evening.

For Families & Caregivers: Communicate Needs Ahead

If needed, contact a neighbor or event organizer in advance to let them know about specific accommodations.

The goal is inclusion. Even small gestures—like offering treats at the sidewalk or not expecting verbal interaction—can make a huge difference for a child with disabilities. One accessible house can be the highlight of a child's Halloween.

Sarah Oleksak