Halloween is America’s third favorite holiday. Children are always excited about it because not only do they get to dress up, but they also get lots and lots of candy.
For families of children with special needs, the excitement is not always great, mainly because many aren’t aware of how to handle those with special needs.
Some children with special needs aren’t able to say “trick or treat” but understand they are supposed to get candy on this day. And sometimes special needs parents find themselves explaining to people why their children aren’t able to say these three words rather than enjoying the moment.
This is especially true for children who don’t require medical equipment to walk. When you go door to door, some people say, “You have to say trick or treat, or we can’t give you any candy!” There is no harm intended, but people don’t understand that sometimes speaking these words is just not possible.
Not only do children with special needs love to trick or treat, but adults with special needs do too. I know people can be hard on older individuals who are out trick or treating because it’s supposed to be for the kids. But what about adults who are developmentally delayed and still find trick or treating fun?
As parents of adults with special needs, I’m pretty sure they’ve tried to explain to them that they’re too old. But they still don’t understand, so what are these parents to do? Take them anyway in hopes that they won’t be turned away or picked on? Or explain at every door that their adult child has special needs and just wants to take part in the joy of trick or treating?
It can be exhausting.
Don’t get me wrong. I understand in today’s world you can’t trust everyone on their word, but there are some cases where people really just can’t help who they are. And in this case, we just want our children to be able to enjoy themselves like everyone else without being looked at or treated differently because of things they can’t help.
As a mother of a special needs child, I feel it’s important to bring awareness to this topic without having to explain to each household why my child may not be responding like others. Or having to purchase a certain color bucket for people to realize that there are children with special needs who still participate in and enjoy Halloween festivities.
So, with that being said, this year when you get a knock at the door and the kid doesn’t say trick or treat, don’t try to make them say it or force a smile before dropping candy in their bucket.
If an adult knocks on your door, I still want you to be aware of your surroundings but also know there are still parents taking their adult children door to door who don’t understand they’re too old to trick or treat.
Above all else, be kind. Halloween and trick or treating are supposed to be fun. And you never know what someone might be dealing with behind the costume.
